Ships for emergencies

Terrible things sometimes happen on earth. Natural disasters are regrettably a regular feature, and if not all are of the size and scale of the Indian Ocean tsunami, they can cause catastrophic harm to local populations. Earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, hurricanes, if they are near large populations, can be devastating.

People caught up in these disasters require external help, both in the immediate rescue operation and in the subsequent clear-up as the survivors come to terms with the practical problems of recovery. And while aircraft and helicopters will be useful, it is ships which will be able to provide the real weight and impetus in any such major emergency, if it is reasonably close to the sea.

Thus, with the widespread devastation of the Tsunami, it was ships that were needed to provide large scale medical assistance, the heavy earth moving and lifting equipment that could clear roads and airstrips, and supply the huge tonnages of goods needed by survivors for their daily requirements.

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