The steering mechanism of a standby safety/supply vessel was damaged in an explosion in the engine room at Grand Harbour, an inspection has revealed.

The explosion occurred as the 58-metre Storm X was manoeuvring inside Grand Harbour to take fuel on Saturday, maritime industry sources said. The tug Wenzina, skippered by Mark Muscat, went to its rescue and the port was closed to traffic until the vessel was secured at Magazine Wharf.

An inspection of the damage was held yesterday but when attempts were made to steer the vessel, it was found to have a bridge control error, meaning it cannot be steered properly.

The vessel is berthed at Flagstone Wharf.

This is the second call by Storm X at Grand Harbour for a fuel stop during this year's tuna season. The vessel, which flies a Panama flag, was built in 1975.

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