Massive Fire Engulfs Cargo Vessel Off Goa Coast, ICG Ships Rushed To Rescue

Panji: A massive fire broke out on a container cargo merchant ship sailing at around 102 nautical miles Southwest of Goa. On information, 2 Indian Coast Guard (ICG) ships sailed with dispatch from Goa to augment firefighting efforts in the sea. A Dornier aircraft was also rushed to take an aerial assessment of the situation. The cargo vessel was on its way to the Sri Lanka capital Colombo from Gujarat's Mundra port. According to the reports, the efforts to control the fire are on. 

Following the incident, the Indian Coast Guard spokesperson stated that a distress call was received regarding a major fire onboard a container, following which the ICG ships were mobilised for rescue efforts. In a post on X, the ICG, stated, “Indian Coast Guard MRCC, Mumbai received a distress call on 19 July 2024 from container carrier MV Maersk Frankfurt 50 NM off Karwar regarding major fire onboard. ICG Dornier and Ships Sachet, Sujeet and Samrat pressed into action. ALH and additional aircraft are being mobilized to augment SAR efforts! Firefighting in progress to avert ecological disaster and ensure the safety of vessel and crew.”

The ICG said the vessel was carrying Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG), as a result of which explosions were occurring on the front side of the vessel.

The ICG ship was carrying out fire-fighting and rescue operations, despite rough sea and weather conditions, the statement by the ICG added.

According to the coast guard, two ships were rushed from Goa to augment firefighting efforts.

Further details regarding the incident are being awaited.