The Chinese-registered cargo ship Yu Zhou Qi Hang (hereinafter referred to as Ship Y), which ran aground on the Yehliu coastline during Typhoon Kong-rey, underwent intensive oil removal operations directed by the Maritime and Port Bureau (MPB) in accordance with the instructions of Minister Shih-Kai Chen of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC). In coordination with the Ocean Conservation Administration of the Ocean Affairs Council, the MPB urged the shipowner and the Protection and Indemnity (P&I) insurance company to expedite oil removal efforts while adhering to the principles of safety, efficiency, and zero pollution. By closely monitoring the Central Weather Administration’s marine meteorological forecasts on a daily basis, the MPB utilized breaks in the northeast monsoon to gradually remove residual oil from the ship’s main heavy fuel oil tank, engine room, and other compartments through a phased and segmented approach. On the afternoon of January 14, 2025, the removal of all residual oil, estimated at over 280 tons, was successfully completed, effectively averting a marine pollution crisis along the northern coast of Yehliu.

The MPB stated that Ship Y ran aground on the shoreline of Yehliu Geopark, an internationally renowned attraction surrounded by valuable geological resources. To protect the geopark’s environment and marine ecology, the MPB implemented strict standards immediately after the incident. The shipowner and the P&I insurance company were required to submit an oil removal plan, and an on-site command post was established to enforce stringent pollution prevention and environmental monitoring measures. Regular emergency response and operational meetings were conducted to ensure steady progress. MOTC Minister Shih-Kai Chen personally inspected the site of Ship Y’s grounding during the initial stages of the incident, despite the strong winds and heavy rain caused by Typhoon Kong-rey, to oversee the situation. In addition, MOTC Deputy Minister Kuo-Hsien Lin and MPB Director General Hsieh-lung Yeh made multiple inspections, working with experts to address challenges arising from adverse weather conditions and structural damage to the vessel. These concerted efforts ensured that the oil removal process was completed without any risk of leakage.

The MPB further explained that Ship Y’s crew reported approximately 290 tons of residual oil, comprising 247 tons of heavy fuel oil, 37 tons of light fuel oil, and 6,280 liters of lubricating oil. Given the high pollution potential and the challenges associated with removing over 200 tons of heavy fuel oil, emergency measures were immediately implemented. Specifically, the MPB collaborated with the Ocean Conservation Administration, New Taipei City Government, and Keelung City Government to position antipollution materials across key ports, facilities, and scenic areas along the northern coastline to ensure a prompt response to potential oil spills. Following Minister Chen’s directive, the removal of heavy fuel oil was prioritized. The operation involved identifying storage locations, employing high-capacity oil pumps and heating equipment to address low temperatures, and utilizing drilling and underwater techniques to manage conditions in which some oil tanks were submerged or obstructed by structural barriers. Dynamic positioning vessels from Dong Fang Offshore were also mobilized to assist with hoisting equipment. On January 14^th, 2025, the oil removal operation was successfully completed, with over 280 tons of residual oil extracted. A third-party verification organization subsequently conducted certification to confirm complete oil removal and calculate the final extracted volume.

The MPB requested that the shipowner and the P&I insurance company promptly submit a comprehensive plan for the removal of Ship Y’s remaining cargo and hull. In collaboration with the Ocean Conservation Administration and other relevant agencies, the MPB carefully evaluated the potential environmental impact of the removal operation and developed a plan aimed at minimizing harm to the environment and ecosystem. Before the hull’s removal, the MPB will continue conducting environmental and structural monitoring, including assessments of the hull’s tilt and displacement, typhoon-resistant stabilization measures, and emergency response preparedness regarding equipment, tools, and personnel. If any abnormalities are detected, immediate response measures will be implemented to prevent secondary disasters and expedite the restoration of the coastal landscape and ecological environment of Yehliu Geopark.

Contact person: Section Chief Chun-Yeh Tsai of the Rescue Section, Maritime Safety Division