Egypt says Damietta port operating normally after drone-linked fire

Egypt’s Damietta Port is operating at full capacity following the fire aboard two vessels on 29 July that authorities have linked to a drone, with shipping and cargo handling continuing without disruption, the Ministry of Transport said on Thursday.

The ministry said the Mediterranean port continues to receive and dispatch vessels as scheduled, while container, dry bulk, liquid bulk, and general cargo operations are proceeding normally.

All berths and terminals remain fully operational, with pilotage, towing, mooring, and other marine services functioning normally to support vessel movements and port activities, according to a ministry statement.

The ministry said cargo handling, storage, and inland transport operations have not been affected, allowing Egypt’s import and export flows to continue without disruption.

Damietta Port continues to operate around the clock, providing uninterrupted services to shipping lines and port users, the ministry added.

The statement followed a statement by the Egyptian Cabinet that preliminary investigations had found that a drone caused the fire aboard two vessels at the Mediterranean port on 29 July. The petroleum ministry said the blaze was brought under control without casualties or injuries.

Authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident, and no group has claimed responsibility. The Cabinet said Egypt would take all necessary measures to safeguard the country’s interests and national security.

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English