The work was carried out by the Hurghada Environmental Protection and Conservation Association (HEPCA) to correct some design faults and damage which had occurred to the system of 32 mooring lines laid around the wreck about three months ago.
HEPCA had found that 'at least half of the lines' had been damaged and that the design alterations were required for operational 'ease and safety'. Following consultation in Sharm El Sheikh between HEPCA and 'several of the larger dive centres' and other bodies, a series of changes was agreed.
Line lengths have been changed and it is hoped that this, allied with a stipulation that dive boats combine mooring with the deployment of stern anchors, will prevent the mooring lines running up against parts of the wreck and chafing.
Other improvements, says HEPCA, have included fitting all mooring lines with steel eyelets 'to make tying on easier', and better buoyage 'to aid easier identification'.
'It is hoped that these new enhancements to the system will eliminate any issues with diving operators using the mooring system, and will ensure that all who visit the SS Thistlegorm comply with its use,' said HEPCA.
The mooring scheme deployed at the Thistlegorm was instigated by HEPCA as part of its Saving the Red Sea Wrecks Campaign, launched to conserve this and other popular diving wrecks in the region.
Related links
Thistlegorm: full cooperation sought |
