Search Intensifies for Missing Crew as Blaze Rages Aboard Wan Hai Ship Near India

Indian Coast – A major maritime emergency is unfolding off the western coast of India as a significant fire continues to burn aboard the Wan Hai 503 containership. The Indian Coast Guard and Navy have launched a coordinated response, with reports indicating that four crew members are unaccounted for. The news was published on the Maritime Executive website.

 

👥 Eighteen crew members were successfully rescued from lifeboats and rafts. Some of the rescued sailors sustained serious injuries and are being transported to India for medical treatment. The fire is rapidly engulfing more of the abandoned vessel.

 

Authorities received the initial distress call around 12:30 local time on June 9, reporting a fire originating in a single container and quickly spreading to others aboard the Singapore-flagged Wan Hai 503 (51,300 DWT). Images indicate widespread container damage, with some containers overboard. Media sources suggest between 40 and 50 containers have fallen into the sea.

 

Multiple explosions have been reported on the ship, which is known to be carrying a range of hazardous materials. These include flammable liquids and solids, spontaneously combustible substances, and various toxic substances, exacerbating the danger.

 

The Indian Coast Guard has described the situation as critical, emphasizing ongoing efforts to stabilize the stricken vessel. Dense smoke continues to emanate from the ship, raising concerns about potential secondary explosions due to the nature of the cargo.

 

A call for assistance was issued, prompting the ONE Marvel and MSC Ambra containerships to change course and provide aid. The rescued crew members have been transferred to an Indian Navy vessel and are being taken to New Mangalore Port. The search continues for the missing sailors, who are believed to be from Taiwan, Indonesia, and Myanmar. The rescue mission included dispatching five Coast Guard vessels and aircraft to assess the scope.

 

Photo: Indian Coast Guard