A tragic accident unfolded on the Norwegian bulk carrier Spar Scorpio, which was operating in the Mediterranean Sea near Malta. Last week, an Indian crew member fell overboard during preparations on deck amidst adverse weather conditions. Despite ongoing searches, the man has not yet been located, raising concerns over safety protocols on board.

The accident took place on Tuesday, February 17, as the ship was waiting for the weather to improve to enable refueling operations in Malta. Jarle Ellefsen, the managing director of Spar Shipping, expressed his sadness over the incident, emphasizing the company's commitment to the well-being of the crew. He noted that the onboard team is receiving support from technical management, including psychological counseling and crisis management teams to help them cope with the tragedy.

Furthermore, the Norwegian Accident Investigation Board has announced that it will investigate the circumstances surrounding the death. The investigation aims to understand the factors that led to the accident and to improve safety measures on maritime operations, especially in adverse weather. This incident not only highlights the risks involved in maritime jobs but also raises questions about the safety protocols in place on such vessels when dealing with hazardous conditions.