[2020 National Audit] 59 Ships Without Marine Pollution Prevention Equipment Inspection... Busan Has the Most

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwangho Lee] It has been revealed that among vessels over 100 tons required to undergo marine pollution prevention equipment inspections under the Marine Environment Management Act, 59 ships have missed their inspection deadlines without receiving inspections.

According to data received by Rep. Inho Choi of the Democratic Party from the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries on the 22nd, as of the end of August 2020, 59 vessels had missed their inspection deadlines for marine pollution prevention equipment inspections.

By region, Busan has the highest number with 37 vessels, followed by Incheon with 7, Mokpo with 4, and Jeju with 3. By vessel type, barges (bajiseon) account for 25 vessels, cargo ships 12, and oil tankers 7.

The Korea Marine Transport Safety Authority regularly inspects environmental pollution prevention equipment such as air pollutant reduction devices and oil filtration devices on vessels over 100 tons in accordance with the Marine Environment Management Act.

The Authority explained that it sends inspection notices monthly to the relevant vessels starting three months before the inspection date, but if contact information or ownership changes, the vessel may miss the inspection deadline due to lack of contact.

Rep. Choi said, "If vessels operate with defects in marine pollution prevention equipment, unfiltered air pollutants or oil can pollute the air or marine environment," adding, "The Authority responsible for marine pollution prevention equipment inspections should provide more proactive guidance and encourage inspections."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.