Salvage operation underway following Glensanda blaze

A salvage company has been called in to stabilise a cargo vessel which was on fire for more than 24 hours at the super-quarry over the weekend.

The blaze which started on the 100,000-tonne cargo vessel began on Friday and is only now ready for salvage work to get underway to eliminate the threat of pollution from the heavy fuel oil present.

The location of the fire made it difficult for fire teams to reach the Yeoman Bontrup vessel on the Morvern peninsula and get it under control.

Deputy chief fire officer for the Highlands and Islands Fire and Rescue Service Trevor Johnson said:

“The remote location of Glensanda Quarry presented a challenge to responding crews as the only access is via ferry. This severe fire consumed the large superstructure at the aft of the vessel containing the accommodation facilities.

“It cannot be stressed enough that fires in this type of situation are extremely difficult and dangerous to deal with – especially considering the remote location – and our marine incident response team has been able to give specialist advice and practical help to all the agencies concerned to secure the safety of those involved.

“This incident has shown how HIFRS (Highlands and Islands Fire and Rescue Service) can work effectively in what is a complex fire situation. The efforts of all those involved is to be commended.”

It took until Saturday evening until the fire was put out because of the explosion risk and it was reported that a number of people had to be treated for minor injuries and smoke inhalation. A fire and police investigation is now underway to establish the cause of the blaze.