28/10/2025
Two Missing, Thirteen Rescued After Cargo Ship Collision in Pearl River Estuary
A maritime accident occurred late on October 25 in the busy Lingding Channel of China’s Pearl River Estuary when the Singapore-flagged container ship Wan Hai A17 collided with the Chinese bulk carrier Hai Li 5. The impact caused the bulk carrier to capsize and sink shortly after the collision. The Wan Hai A17, en route to Nansha Port, sustained visible bow damage but remained afloat and was later anchored for inspection.
Authorities reported that 13 of the 15 crew members from Hai Li 5 were rescued by nearby vessels and maritime patrol units. Two crew members remain missing as search and rescue teams, coordinated by the Guangzhou Maritime Safety Administration, continue operations in challenging conditions. Maritime rescue helicopters and patrol boats have been deployed to comb the area for any signs of the missing seafarers.
Preliminary findings suggest that Hai Li 5 may have lost power moments before the collision, leaving the vessel unable to maneuver and directly in the path of the oncoming containership. The investigation will focus on determining the precise cause of the mechanical failure, the actions taken by both bridges prior to impact, and the effectiveness of communication and navigation protocols.
In response to the incident, maritime authorities have imposed temporary traffic restrictions in the Lingding Channel to ensure safety and facilitate salvage operations. The submerged wreck of Hai Li 5 poses a potential hazard to navigation, and specialized recovery teams are working to secure the site and contain any possible fuel leakage.
The collision underscores the high risks of vessel operations in congested waterways such as the Pearl River Estuary, where heavy container traffic and strong tidal conditions make navigation complex. Both ship operators are cooperating with Chinese maritime investigators, while insurance and classification societies assess the extent of damage and potential environmental implications.
