Loaded barge bound for Seattle sinking off central B.C. coast

A barge carrying over 200 containers is sinking off British Columbia's central coast, prompting a response from the Canadian Coast Guard and the Heiltsuk Nation's marine emergency team. The tugboat Malolo reported the incident while en route from Alaska to Seattle. Divers hired by the tug owner are assessing the cause of the water intrusion, while the Heiltsuk Nation's marine emergency response team monitors the situation around the clock. The barge, which has a compromised side, is being pumped to stay afloat, and protective booms have been deployed to protect nearby salmon creeks. The Coast Guard has pollution response equipment ready, but no signs of pollution have been detected.

The Heiltsuk Nation highlighted the ongoing risks of marine accidents and criticized reports of a new oil pipeline project that could compromise the ban on oil tankers along B. C. 's coast. They emphasized that even one oil spill could devastate their way of life. The province's Ministry of Environment and Parks is aware of the situation and will support the response effort if necessary.