The MV Ruby is now being towed on its way from Norway, passing Sweden and Denmark, to Lithuania.
The ship, loaded with ammonium nitrate, has not yet sought a port of refuge in Sweden. If it does, it will be a decision made by the Transport Agency, other authorities, and municipalities, explains Pehr Johansson at the County Administrative Board in Västra Götaland, who is leading the special organization around the event.
We are currently looking into which harbors could be suitable along the west and south coasts. It's about having the capacity to receive a ship of this size, he says.
When the ship was in port in Norwegian Tromsö, a 500-meter security zone was established, and this could also become relevant here.
A 500-meter security zone seems entirely reasonable since the substance is considered explosive under the right conditions.
Another risk the County Administrative Board is looking into is if the ship's damage worsens and the cargo leaks into the sea.
That ammonium nitrate is transported by land and sea is in itself not unusual, emphasizes Johansson.
What has made us pay attention to this is both the nature of the cargo and the fact that the ship is confirmed to be damaged.
The authorities are on top of all aspects.
The Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB) is the national coordinator regarding the ship.
