Currently, the response to the stranded vessel MSC Baltic III has shifted to ensuring the ship remains stable the upcoming winter.

Since grounding in the vicinity of Wild Cove, Newfoundland, over seven months ago, the containers submerged within the containership have been a foul stench as the rotting food inside decays.

The 2,478 TEU containership has been stranded on the seafloor since February 5th and is unable to refloat due to "significant" damage to the hull. As such, the focus of the salvage operation has turned to the removal of ship's fuel and cargo, although challenging sea and weather conditions have slowed progress. To date, 399 containers have been removed from the vessel in total.

fficials state that 1,665.7 cubic meters of heavy fuel oil and pollutants have been cleaned up. A total of 73 containers remain on board with most located in an underwater position below the deck that requires draining and lifting before removal. According to the authorities, this process is complex and can only be advanced when weather conditions safe operations.

The Canadian Coast Guard states: "Due to the food spoilage in some of the cargo, varying levels of hydrogen sulfide have been detected on theSC Baltic III. This has led to noxious smells in the area of the vessel. Staff are continuously monitoring the gas levels and implementing on-site protective measures. There is risk to the public."

The Coast Guard added that ballast water is being pumped into the MSC Baltic III to stabilize the stranded vessel ahead of the winter season The shipowner, Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), has requested a cold-weather package for the vessel, and regular dive inspections of the hull are ongoing to monitor the underwater and guide the cold-weather response. Coast Guard personnel continue to monitor and clean up any small patches of tar found at Cedar Cove and along the shore.

A zip is currently being built from shore to the vessel to allow salvage personnel to board safely. The Dutch-flagged general cargo ship EEMS Dublin, operated by Amasus, remains on scene as a support vessel to assist with the transfer of personnel and containers. Officials say the vessel will stay in place until container operations are complete and the zip line built. Water and shoreline surveys and drone overflights will continue as weather permits to monitor pollution.

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