According to Southern Africa Freight News, the fire-damaged containership HMM Platinum remains offshore South Africa while awaiting approval to berth at the Port of Ngqura, following a request submitted to the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA).

TNPA confirmed that a request to enter the port has been received, but clearance remains subject to consultations with the relevant authorities as well as the availability of berths, equipment and operational resources.

The Liberian-flagged vessel was sailing from Kattupalli, India, to Santos, Brazil, when a fire reportedly broke out in a container off southern Madagascar in early October. All 24 crew members were reported safe.

Carrying approximately 2,300 containers, HMM Platinum is being assisted by salvage specialist SMIT under a Lloyd’s Open Form agreement. The extent of damage to the vessel and cargo has not yet been confirmed, although containers close to the fire may have suffered heat, smoke or water damage.

Cargo interests are expected to provide salvage security before affected cargo can be forwarded or released. Claims specialist WE Cox has also indicated that a general average declaration remains possible, potentially requiring cargo owners to provide additional security toward shared casualty-related costs.

Durban had initially been considered as a possible port of refuge, with other South African options subsequently explored. TNPA has now confirmed that the current request concerns Ngqura.

According to an October 23 update from HMM, firefighting operations had reached the final dampening-down stage, with further measures and investigations planned once the fire was fully extinguished.

For now, HMM Platinum remains outside South African port limits, and TNPA has not confirmed when or whether permission to berth at Ngqura will be granted.