A massive explosion and fire broke out onboard the Singapore-flagged container vessel MV Wan Hai 503 on June 9, approximately 44 nautical miles off Azhikkal, Kerala. The ship, carrying 22 crew members including 8 Chinese and 6 Taiwanese nationals, sent out a distress call. India’s Coast Guard and Navy responded swiftly, deploying ships Samudra Prahari and Sachet for fire-fighting and boundary cooling operations. The vessel is reported to be listing 10–15° to port. Another ship, ICG Samarth, along with salvors from Kochi, has been mobilised for rescue efforts. China lauded India`s "prompt and professional response".