Plan approved to remove barge grounded off El Morro

By THE STAR STAFF

The U.S. Coast Guard on Monday approved the final plan to remove the barge Defiant, which has been grounded since Feb. 9 on the rocks off Castillo San Felipe del Morro, at the entrance to the port of San Juan.

“Our operational priority is to protect the maritime transportation system and ensure that the channel remains safe and open,” said Lt. Cmdr. Ray López in a written statement.

The removal will take place during high tide, once logistical arrangements are complete and weather and sea conditions permitting. Authorities have established a mobile safety zone around the vessel and urged mariners to stay clear of the area.

As part of the preparations, coral and marine life assessments were conducted to mitigate potential environmental impacts. Structural inspections of the barge were also completed.

According to the approved plan, 17 compartments, including the 10 fuel tanks, were pressurized and sealed to allow for air injection, displace accumulated water, and generate positive buoyancy. Two tugboats will participate in the maneuver to detach and stabilize the vessel.

Once freed, it will be reassessed before being moved to Pier 16 or an area outside the bay as a precautionary measure. No injuries were reported in the incident.