Another container ship catches fire off Kerala coast, 21 Filipino crew onboard

Dubai: A Singapore-flagged vessel, MV Interasia Tenacity, reported a fire in one of its deck containers on Thursday while sailing off the Kerala coast, prompting a swift response from the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). All 21 Filipino crew members on board are safe, authorities confirmed.

According to Manorama News, the ship was carrying 1,387 containers and had departed Port Klang, Malaysia, on June 8. It was en route to Nhava Sheva, Maharashtra, when the fire broke out.

Following a distress alert, the ICG dispatched the Offshore Patrol Vessel ICGS Sachet and launched aerial surveillance with a Dornier aircraft. The vessel’s captain later confirmed the fire was under control and no further assistance was needed. However, the ICG continues to monitor the ship’s condition and movement as a precaution.

Major operation continues

A far more critical situation is unfolding aboard another Singapore-flagged ship, MV Wan Hai 503, which caught fire on June 9. The ICG is conducting extensive firefighting efforts despite rough sea conditions as the vessel drifts 42 nautical miles off Beypore, Kerala, within India’s Exclusive Economic Zone.

Risk of environmental disaster

The MV Wan Hai 503 is carrying 1.2 lakh metric tons of fuel and hazardous cargo, raising serious concerns about a potential ecological disaster. Aerial firefighting missions have been launched using Indian Air Force MI-17 helicopters, which dropped 1,000 kg of dry chemical powder directly on the fire’s core.

Dense smoke signals ongoing internal fire

While visible flames have largely been extinguished, dense smoke continues to rise from the vessel, indicating persistent internal heat and possible metallic fires near the fuel tanks. Five ICG ships, two Dornier aircraft, a helicopter, and salvage teams are involved in the firefighting operation, supported by vessels from the Directorate General of Shipping.

Tow operation underway

Efforts are ongoing to establish a towline and move the vessel farther from the coast to minimise environmental damage. The situation remains critical, with firefighting and monitoring continuing round-the-clock. 

With inputs from ANI, IANS