CO2 leak in Rotterdam harbor injures six after tugboat collision

Six people suffered from carbon dioxide inhalation after a tugboat collided with a cargo ship in the Rotterdam harbor early Sunday morning. Four of them were hospitalized, while two others received medical attention at the scene, according to Veiligheidsregio Rotterdam-Rijnmond.

The incident occurred around 2 a.m. when the tugboat struck the larger vessel. In an effort to prevent the tug from sinking, two harbor ships and the cargo vessel pushed it against the quay. This maneuver required significant engine power, which released a large amount of CO2 into the surrounding area. The affected individuals inhaled the gas, leading to symptoms of poisoning.

Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene. "They are doing well under the circumstances," said a spokesperson for the safety region regarding the hospitalized victims. Their specific conditions were not disclosed.

To stabilize the vessel, authorities deployed pumps to remove water from the tugboat. "The pumps are keeping the vessel afloat, allowing for a controlled salvage operation," the safety region stated in a release.