Sunday, 10th August 2008

Fumes in catamaran vehicle bay

Alex Kuilboer, Pembroke

Sitting in the car waiting to roll out of the vehicle bay of the Maria Dolores Catamaran is just like sitting on the Gozo ferry. Only I experienced a nervous difference.

While the huge ramp was still raised, many of the vehicles started their engines. I was amazed. I thought that any second, an officer would come over and order people to switch off their engines. This was not the case.

Two of the officers dressed in white told me there were ventilation fans that extract the harmful fumes. The smell of fuel was overwhelming, even while sitting in the car with the windows up.

Incidentally, could anyone explain why my number plate was taken note of by what seemed to be a group of five harbour/Customs officials?

Anyone with information or a similar experience may contact me at proposalmalta@gmail.com

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Article © Allied Newspapers Ltd., printed on Sunday, November 22, 2009. This article is for personal use only, and should not be distributed.

Comments

victor vellaail.com (on 10/8/08)

The fact that cars are started before the ramp is down is only due to ignorance and stupidity, what I fear in these circumstances is a fire , as yes I do believe that there is a good ventilation system, obviouly the fumes will be smelt , the number is recorded for security purposes and also for licenceing purposes.

Philip Grech (on 10/8/08)

you had the windows up, but probably the fan on.

Mallia Oliver (on 10/8/08)

2 weeks ago I had reported my self about this situatuion to the officers dressed in white.