Why did the Langkawi ferry run aground near Kuala Kedah?

Question

Accepted Answer

Langkawi Ferry Ran Aground Due to Low Tide and Potential Route Obstructions

A ferry travelling from Kuah, Langkawi to the Kuala Kedah Jetty Terminal ran aground on a mud bank near its destination due to low tide. The vessel, carrying 545 passengers and eight crew, became stuck in the Kuala Kedah shipping lane around 3 pm. At the time of the incident, the water depth was 1.7 metres, which is generally considered navigable.
Low Tide as the Primary Cause

The grounding occurred specifically because of a low tide, which reduced the water depth in the shipping lane. While 1.7 metres of water was present, this may have been insufficient in the specific location where the ferry encountered the mud bank. High tide was not expected to commence until 7 pm, with the full tide occurring much later at 11:30 pm, indicating the ferry was navigating during a period of receding waters.
Possible Deviations from Route or Blockages

Preliminary assessments suggest that the ferry might not have adhered to its original navigational route. Alternatively, the established route could have been obstructed by sea movement at the time of passage. These factors are being investigated as potential contributors to the ferry grounding, alongside the prevailing low tide conditions.
Rescue and Monitoring Operations Underway

The Kedah Fire and Rescue Department received an emergency call regarding the incident at 4:55 pm. A team was dispatched to the scene, where firefighters, personnel from the Marine Department, and local fishermen were actively monitoring the situation. These entities remained on alert for any further developments as the ferry awaited the rising tide.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

Why did the Langkawi ferry run aground near Kuala Kedah?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends