On Tuesday, July 9, 2024, the CMA CGM container ship ‘Benjamin Franklin’ (17,859 TEU) lost 44 containers at sea during its journey from Asia to Europe. An additional 30 containers on board were damaged.
The 399-meter ‘Benjamin Franklin’ is part of the FAL1 Service, which has been rerouted around the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa to avoid attacks by Yemeni Houthi militants in the Red Sea. Ships navigating this route are currently facing severe weather conditions, with another vessel running aground northwest of Cape Town earlier this week.
CMA CGM announced in a service update that 44 containers were lost from the ‘Benjamin Franklin’ off the coast of South Africa on July 9, 2024, and another 30 containers were damaged. The company assured that there were no injuries among the crew, no pollution, and no significant damage to the ship, which remains seaworthy. Inspections confirmed that the lost containers contained only non-hazardous goods.
Ongoing Journey
Currently in Port Elizabeth, the ‘Benjamin Franklin’ will continue its voyage to Cape Town. CMA CGM has informed the relevant authorities and will proceed to Cape Town to assess the situation and take necessary measures to ensure the safe continuation of the journey.
South African state-owned Transnet reported that terminal operations in several ports were suspended due to strong winds and high waves over 3.5 meters, leading to the suspension of maritime traffic for safety reasons. A.P. Moller – Maersk also reported delays for a ship arriving in Cape Town due to adverse sailing conditions.
Recent severe weather in Cape Town and surrounding areas has left thousands homeless. The Western Cape province has requested emergency aid from the government.