Barge to remain stuck at Vancouver’s Sunset Beach until at least Sunday
Posted November 17, 2021 2:47 pm.
Last Updated November 17, 2021 4:14 pm.
Update: Transport Canada now says the next attempt to remove the barge will be at high tide on Sunday, not Thursday as originally planned.
A barge that broke free in choppy Vancouver waters on Monday, sparking attention and concern from people across the region, will spend at least four more nights at Sunset Beach.
Transport Canada says the next attempt to remove the barge will be Sunday at high tide, which would be at 7:53 a.m. or 5:13 p.m.
Related video: Unmoored barge drifts in rough waters to Sunset Beach in Vancouver (Nov. 15)
It says it’s working with the owner of the large metal container on a safe recovery plan.
On Monday, alarming footage showed the unmoored barge thrashing in rough waters, as waves splashed onto the sea wall before it ran aground at Sunset Beach.
THERE’S A GIANT UNMOORED BARGE ON THE LOOSE HEADING TOWARDS BURRARD BRIDGE w pic.twitter.com/bmsnbqnlv0
— Jorge Amigo (@AmigoJor) November 15, 2021
There were concerns the barge could collide with the Burrard Street Bridge, which was closed Monday night as a precaution. It re-opened Tuesday morning.
A lone tug boat tried to pull the barge free on Tuesday, but it wouldn’t budge.
Happening now: the loose barge. The tugboat. They’re trying. @CityNewsVAN pic.twitter.com/jEkQ66yV0a
— Kier Junos (@kierjunos) November 16, 2021
The barge was previously filled with wood chips and Transport Canada says it does not pose a threat to the environment.
“Once refloat has been successful and the barge stabilized, we will allow the barge to proceed for repairs, and we will follow up with the owner to ensure the vessel is fit for service.”
