Sinking Barge Grounded Off Narragansett: Coast Guard

NARRAGANSETT, RI — A barge loaded with pilings was intentionally grounded after it started listing off Narragansett Sunday afternoon, according to the Coast Guard.

The tugboat Challenger was towing the barge to Boston to deliver the pilings to Boston Logan International Airport when the barge started taking on water and listing about 1:45 p.m., the Coast Guard said in a media release.

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"The tug proactively made the decision to intentionally soft ground the barge in the vicinity of Bonnet Shores in Narragansett ... and prevent it from sinking or blocking the channel," the release said.

"The barge has successfully grounded with no pollution risks and remains in a non-distress status," according to the release.

"All parties have been forthcoming and helpful in this effort as Sector Southeastern New England collaborates with the barge’s class society and company for salvage operations to allow its eventual transit to Boston," the release said.

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