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Ice Floes Suspected as Second Ship in a Week Springs Leak on Mittellandkanal

Authorities urge heightened caution on ice‑covered federal waterways after the damaged vessel was sealed overnight.

Overview

  • The incident occurred Saturday near Calvörde after a cargo motor ship moored and the captain reported water entering the engine room.
  • Firefighters and water police pumped about 11.5 cubic meters of water before locating a roughly 3–4 centimeter breach in the hull.
  • Responders initially plugged the hole with a wedge, and specialist divers fully sealed the vessel during the night.
  • Preliminary police findings indicate the damage likely came from striking an ice floe, with no injuries or pollutant leaks reported.
  • The case is the second similar leak on the canal within a week, following one near Bülstringen, prompting renewed warnings to shipmasters in icy sections.