Letter: Ferry disaster: ways to avert further tragedies
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sir: After each ferry disaster we are told that the free surface effect of water no more than one or two inches in depth is enough to capsize a ferry ('Roll-on roll-off design in question again', 29 September). It is then pointed out that the cost of operating a ship with many longitudinal bulkheads would be prohibitive because of the difficulty of manoeuvring vehicles between these divisions.
So, lay numerous fore and aft divisions no more than a foot high and perhaps only 18ins apart over the entire car deck and lay another pierced car deck on top. One foot of height and a noticeable weight would need to be paid for, but considerable amounts of water might then enter the ship, fall through the pierced deck and be pumped clear without 'swilling'. By these means, severe leaks could be overcome, although nothing could save a ferry with doors actually open or opened.
Yours faithfully,
M. F. MORDAUNT
Birling Gap, East Sussex
29 September
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments