site.btaRescue Effort Gears Up for Grounded Tanker off Ahtopol

The Defence Ministry and the Transport Ministry are coordinating efforts to support the crew of the tanker Kairos off the coast of Ahtopol, the Defence Ministry said on Sunday.

During a conversation on Sunday between representatives of the Executive Agency Maritime Administration and the crew, it was established that they are in need of food supplies and communication equipment, the ministry said.

Delivery of the necessary supplies is being arranged within the day, with operations coordinated by the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre, while the Navy is ready to deploy a Panther helicopter from Chayka Air Base to deliver what the crew of the tanker Kairos needs.

The tanker, which ran aground off the coast of Ahtopol, has been stabilized and poses no danger, Burgas Regional Governor Vladimir Krumov said on Saturday. The crew is safe and there is currently no need for evacuation, he noted.

“We have tried to reach the vessel with a Border Police ship, but the rough sea and strong wind are hampering the operation,” Krumov said. He added that once the wind drops, access will be provided by aircraft and helicopter to deliver equipment, water and other necessary supplies.