A significant maritime incident is unfolding off the southern coast of India, as search and rescue operations continue for four missing crew members of the Singapore-registered container vessel, MV Wan Hai 503. The ship, which was carrying 22 crew members, caught fire on 9 June 2024, approximately 80km southwest of Azhikkal in Kerala, raising urgent questions about safety at sea.
Fire Incident Details
The fire broke out around 12:30 PM, causing the vessel to list at an alarming angle of 10 to 15 degrees. Fortunately, 18 of the crew members were rescued by the Indian Coast Guard and Navy, but four are still unaccounted for. Those missing include two from Taiwan, one from Myanmar, and one from Indonesia.
Current Status of the Crew
- 18 crew members have been rescued and are safe at New Mangalore Port.
- Among the rescued, six suffered injuries and have been transferred to a medical facility, with three already discharged.
Efforts to locate the missing individuals are ongoing, with aerial surveillance being utilized to assist in this critical search.
Fighting the Blaze
The fire is reported to still be raging, with the ship surrounded by thick black smoke and flames leaping from the stacked containers. As of now, additional fire-fighting vessels have been deployed to combat the blaze.
Government Response and Investigation
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) is in close coordination with Indian authorities. They are monitoring the status of the vessel and assessing potential environmental impacts. MPA also confirmed that it is investigating the incident in partnership with the ship’s management company, Wan Hai Lines.
Historical Context
This incident is not isolated; within recent weeks, another container ship, a Liberian-flagged vessel, sank off Kerala after carrying hazardous cargo. Fortunately, all 24 crew members aboard that ship were rescued.
As the situation develops, we will keep a close eye on updates concerning the missing crew and efforts to extinguish the fire on the Wan Hai 503.