What Happened to the Singapore Cargo Ship Off Kerala?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
On June 9, the Indian Navy and Coast Guard rescued 18 crew members from the burning cargo vessel WAN HAI 503 off the Kerala coast. With hospitals on high alert, the fate of four additional crew members remains uncertain. This incident raises critical questions about maritime safety and emergency response in international waters.
Key Takeaways
- Indian Navy and Coast Guard successfully rescued 18 crew members.
- Fire occurred approximately 70 nautical miles off Kerala coast.
- Four crew members from the Fire and Safety Department remain unaccounted for.
- Local hospitals are on high alert for potential medical emergencies.
- Ship was carrying hazardous materials.
Kozhikode, June 9 (NationPress) The Indian Navy and the Coast Guard successfully rescued 18 crew members from the Singapore-flagged cargo ship, WAN HAI 503, which experienced a fire approximately 70 nautical miles off the coast of Kerala, according to officials.
While 18 crew members were saved after they leapt into the sea, the status of four additional crew members from the ship's Fire and Safety Department is still being determined.
Recent images depict flames consuming the upper deck of the vessel.
The fire incident was reported while the ship was deep in the Arabian Sea, near the Beypore–Azhikal coastline of Kerala.
Following the alert from the Indian Coast Guard, hospitals in Kozhikode and Kochi have been placed on high alert to provide medical assistance if needed for the crew.
The 270-meter-long vessel, which has a draught of 12.5 meters, had set sail from Colombo on June 7 and was headed for Mumbai.
In the meantime, Dornier aircraft and vessels from the Coast Guard and Navy have arrived at the location, with additional support expected shortly.
Captain K. Arun Kumar, the Port officer at Beypore, stated that some of the containers onboard are carrying hazardous materials, including flammable liquids and solids, as well as toxic substances.
The rescued crew members are anticipated to be transported to Beypore.
As per officials, there are no Indian nationals among the crew.
Point of View
This incident underscores the importance of maritime safety and rapid response systems to protect lives at sea. The Indian Navy and Coast Guard's prompt action reflects their commitment to safeguarding lives, while the alert status of local hospitals shows preparedness for emergencies. We should critically evaluate the protocols in place for such emergencies to ensure maximum efficiency in future incidents.
NationPress
09/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the fire on the WAN HAI 503?
The exact cause of the fire on the WAN HAI 503 is currently under investigation, but officials indicated that some containers may contain hazardous materials.
How many crew members were rescued?
The Indian Navy and Coast Guard rescued 18 crew members, while the status of four others is still unknown.
What measures are in place for medical assistance?
Hospitals in Kozhikode and Kochi have been placed on high alert to provide immediate medical assistance if needed.
Where was the WAN HAI 503 headed?
The WAN HAI 503 was en route to Mumbai after departing from Colombo on June 7.
Are there any Indian crew members on board?
According to officials, there are no Indian nationals among the crew members of the vessel.
