Singapore-Flagged Cargo Ship Catches Fire Off Kochi; Search Underway for Missing Crew
A Singapore-flagged cargo vessel, Wan Hai 503, en route from Colombo to Nhava Sheva, caught fire following an under-deck explosion approximately 315 nautical miles off the coast of Kochi, India. The incident occurred on June 8, leaving four crew members missing and five injured.
The 270-meter-long vessel, carrying container cargo, had departed from Colombo on June 7. The explosion caused significant damage, leading to a massive fire onboard. Emergency protocols were activated immediately.
The Indian Navy and Coast Guard have launched a coordinated rescue operation. Naval and Coast Guard ships Rajdoot, Arnvesh, and Sachet are at the scene, working to contain the fire and locate the missing crew members. Helicopters and other resources have also been deployed to aid the efforts.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the explosion, and efforts are underway to ensure the safety of the remaining crew and secure the vessel.
