Yellowknife (Oct 11/06) - Ferry service across the Mackenzie River at Fort Providence was suspended yesterday afternoon after workers discovered a hairline fracture in the vessel's hull.

The Merv Hardie ferry was grounded after a fracture was found in the hull. - NNSL file photo

Crews were working yesterday to repair the crack, which came after the Merv Hardie ferry ran aground in low water.

A department of transportation official said the vessel could be running again by 6 a.m. today.

"The hope is that with the temporary repairs, it can resume operations until permanent repairs can be done," said spokesperson Bob Kelly.

Transport officials decided to dock the boat around noon Tuesday after crewmen noticed the vessel taking on water. "Not a lot of water, just a little bit," he said.

The department of transportation would be looking into the cause of the accident, said Kelly. "The federal agencies will decide whether or not they need to do an investigation," he said.

The crack was discovered as the boat was crossing to Fort Providence he said. Crews made the decision to "wet dock" when the boat, which was carrying a load of vehicles, reached port.

"There was some traffic waiting (to cross) there," he said.

Permanent repairs, which include welding, were to be done at midnight when services closed, he said.

Water levels in the Mackenzie River are lower than normal for this time of year. Transport officials are not sure exactly how the ferry ran aground, however.