Hardly two days after the Singapore-flagged container ship MV Wan Hai 503 caught fire off the coast of Kerala between Beypore and Azhikkal ports, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), Indian Navy, Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), and ship salvage partners, who had been undertaking the firefighting operations, could contain the fire onboard partially on Wednesday (June 11, 2025), with approximately 40% of the blaze suppressed.
According to a situation report released by the government agencies, although the fire was contained partially, the vessel remains afloat and continues to emit heavy smoke.
Chances high for Singapore-flagged ship that caught fire off Kerala coast to sink along with dangerous cargo
Fire is contained primarily in the forward bays, with firefighting efforts still progressing. No structural compromise of the ship has been reported. However, there exist thermal and gas risks near the affected compartments. The stern of the ship remains clear, providing a potential window for forward or aft towing if safe to do so. Towline connection, however, could be attempted only after full fire suppression.
Fuel oil, diesel
