The Norwegian Coastal Administration writes in a press release.
Ground support “Northguider” on December 28, 2018 in a protected area.
The crew was rescued in very difficult conditions. Before long, the Austevoll trawler was drained of diesel.
But based on the high environmental requirements that Norwegian authorities have set for Svalbard, it also became important that the wreck be removed, writes the Norwegian Coastal Administration.
Challenging debris removal
Wreck removal has never been carried out this far north before. Based on the Svalbard Environmental Protection Act, the Norwegian Coastal Administration ordered the shipping company to prevent environmental damage and remove the wreck.
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Last year’s attempts to set up, seal, and then tow to the mainland had to be canceled due to unusually difficult weather and ice conditions.
The last phase of this summer has been to divide the trawler into smaller parts. About 50 five-ton parts have been loaded onto a barge and then transported.
– This operation has been unique. As far north as no shipwreck has ever been rigged. Also, so far from logistical support opportunities and other functions. It is important that the wreck is now away from a major protected area in a very vulnerable environment, says Rune Bergstrøm from the Norwegian Coastal Administration’s Department of Emergency Preparedness.
He describes the implementation of the action as a success, although there have been some challenges along the way.
– The action has given us many lessons that can be included in future contingency plans for our northern areas, he continues.
This is what the victim looked like last summer. Photo: The coast guard
Inspection completed
This weekend, the Norwegian Coastal Administration and the Governor conducted an inspection to verify that the assignment had been carried out according to the guidelines given. A review of videos of divers at the wreck site shows that everything was removed. The iron debris had been collected on a barge with a magnet, while the divers had removed other material.
It has also been verified how the remains are now secured and transported on the trailer from Hinlopen to the mainland. The preparation of the trailer and the trip south are already underway.
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The rubble is transported away from the Hinlopen Strait. Photo: KYSTVERKET
