SALVING THE ARAHURA

Dominion, Volume 10, Issue 3020, 6 March 1917, Page 6

SALVING THE ARAHURA

PUMPS GAIN THE MASTERY GOOD PROGRESS

By Telegraph—Press Association. Cisborne, March 5. Pumping operations on the Aralrara were suspended at 4.30 yesterday on account of the big list that had developed as tho ship regained buoyancy. ]t was decided to await low tide for tho ship to regain an even keel, and take measures to prevent a further list. The vessel was again on an even ,keol this morning, and pumping was resumed by tbo'Torawhiti. Chain's bad bepii attached to the Terawhiti and the Tuatea to help keep tho Aralmra in an upright position.

A second diver has been sen,*'from shore to accelerate the patelrlng work on the vessel's side.

It is hoped to make an attempt at refloating on the afternoon tide. The soa is calm and tho> prospects are considered satisfactory. A later message says:—Up to noon excellent progress was made with the pumping, the water being reduced to within 4ft. or sft. of the engine-room plates. A powerful stationary pump is being installed to provide the vessel with independent means of copinc; with the water when refloated. "Unfortunately, the weather changed about midday, an easterly swell intorfe.rinp with the iiioorinps of the tug-bonfs and suspending diving operations. The engineroom staff is engaged in blocking up rivet holes, etc.. as the water in* the vessel is reduced.