Firefighting efforts intensify aboard Singapore vessel after explosion off Kerala coast

Authorities say there is still a risk due to hazardous cargo and hydrocarbon vapours near the fuel tanks. Representational Pic

The Indian Coast Guard, in conjunction with various other agencies, is diligently working around the clock to mitigate a significant fire aboard the Singapore-flagged cargo vessel MV Wan Hai 503.

This incident occurred earlier this week due to an explosion of a container while the vessel was en route to Mumbai from Colombo, off the coast of Kerala, according to news agency PTI.

"Approximately 40 per cent of the fire has now been brought under control. The vessel remains afloat but is unmanned and is gradually drifting southeast in the Arabian Sea," as stated in updates provided by the Director General of Shipping, reported PTI.

In a notable advancement, a team of salvage experts, alongside Coast Guard divers, successfully boarded the vessel.

This group includes the Salvage Master, who is currently overseeing the situation from onboard.

Authorities have indicated that efforts are now concentrated on maintaining the vessel's distance from the coast and fully extinguishing the fire.

The firefighting operations, focusing on the forward cargo holds of the ship, are being directed by Indian Coast Guard ships Samudra Prahari and Samarth.

These ships are employing foam and boundary cooling techniques to prevent the fire from escalating.

"Hydrocarbon vapours have been observed by the salvage master, indicating possible heat transfer near fuel tanks. Continuous onboard assessments are being conducted to monitor any escalation," the DG Shipping said, reported PTI.

At the same time, Rajdoot, Arnvesh, Abhinav, and ICGS 513 are carrying out search and rescue operations in the area. Of the 22 crew members on board the vessel, 18 were rescued while four remain missing.

After an earlier attempt failed, a tow connection was successfully made between the cargo ship and the Emergency Towing Vessel Water Lily, as well as a Coast Guard asset.

This was achieved through joint efforts by the Marine Emergency Response Centre (MERC) and ICG personnel.

Authorities say there is still a risk due to hazardous cargo and hydrocarbon vapours near the fuel tanks.

However, officials from the Directorate General of Shipping say stabilisation work is ongoing, and daily meetings are being held with all involved, including the Indian Navy, maritime agencies, and the ship's owners.

The Coast Guard also flew in five team members, including three salvage experts and two rescue divers, to support the operation.

Extra firefighting supplies, including more foam and dry chemical powder, are being sent in to assist the crew battling the blaze, officials said.

(With PTI inputs)