The vessel RUBY, which is loaded with 20,000 tons of explosive ammonium nitrate, has sought permission to dock at the Port of KLAIPEDA, Lithuania.

The Klaipeda State Authority has reported that the vessel sought entry into the port and that they are carefully assessing the situation because the ship is loaded with dangerous cargo. According to MarineTraffic data, the Maltese-flagged vessel is anchored off Andenes, Norway, since today, 12 September.

The vessel RUBY is seeking repairs after it suffered damage to its hull and propellers. Citing its damaged conditions and the inclement weather, the ship sought refuge in the port of Tromso, Norway, where a 500 metre safety radius was set up around the ship. RUBY left the area on 4 September.

However, owing to the dangerous nature of the cargo being close to universities and hospitals, the vessel was taken away from the harbor to an anchorage, and temporary repairs were made. Now, the vessel has applied for permission to enter the port of Klaipeda and offload the dangerous cargo. The vessel has plans to later head for repairs at one of the port’s shipyards.

Ammonium nitrate is a chemical compound that has uses in fertilizers but is most commonly known for its explosive properties. This improper storage of this particular compound was the cause of the Beirut explosions in 2020.

The authorities of Klaipeda have stated that they are carefully evaluating the situation, and a decision is expected in the near future.