Egyptian authorities have reported that a tanker transporting crude oil experienced a breakdown in a narrow section of the Suez Canal, causing a temporary disruption in the vital waterway.

The vessel, named Seavigour and flying the flag of Malta, encountered a mechanical malfunction at the 12-kilometer (7.5-mile) mark, as confirmed by George Safwat, spokesperson for Egypt's Suez Canal Authority.

In response, tugs were deployed to tow the tanker from the single-lane portion to a double-lane area located at the 17-kilometer (10.5-mile) mark.

The incident resulted in traffic disruption for eight other ships following the Seavigour, which measures 274 meters (899 feet) in length and 48.63 meters (159 feet) in width. This event adds to a series of disruptions caused by vessel breakdowns or groundings witnessed in recent years.

Notably, in March 2021, the Ever Given, a container ship, collided with a bank in a single-lane segment, leading to a six-day blockade that had significant implications for global trade delays.

Similarly, in March of this year, a ship flying the Liberian flag also ran aground but was successfully refloated within a few hours.

As authorities work to address the latest incident, the Suez Canal continues to play a crucial role in international maritime trade, with disruptions serving as a reminder of the challenges and potential consequences faced by vessels navigating the narrow waterway. (ILKHA)