Fire-Stricken ‘Wan Hai 503’ Relocated Outside India’s Jurisdiction After Crew Fatality

The container vessel Wan Hai 503, registered under the Singapore flag, has been relocated beyond the boundaries of India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) following a severe onboard fire that claimed the life of one crew member. The incident, which began on June 22 while the ship was positioned approximately 177 nautical miles southwest of Porbandar, Gujarat, led to a significant emergency response involving multiple Indian authorities.

The 2014-built vessel, with a capacity of over 4,800 TEUs, reported a fire outbreak in one of its cargo holds while en route from Kandla to Colombo. The situation quickly escalated, prompting the ship’s master to issue a distress call. In response, the Indian Coast Guard deployed vessels and aerial assets to assist with firefighting and crew support. A coordinated effort involving offshore supply vessels and Coast Guard assets ensured the evacuation of 20 out of 21 crew members. Tragically, one crew member was found deceased within the vessel.

Following days of firefighting attempts and continued structural deterioration, Indian authorities decided to tow the vessel outside the nation’s EEZ. The decision was made after assessments indicated ongoing thermal hotspots within the cargo holds and possible risks to maritime safety and the marine environment.

The Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Mumbai, along with the Directorate General of Shipping, played key roles in managing the situation. Despite efforts to mitigate the hazard, the fire persisted in smouldering form, raising concerns about the vessel’s structural integrity.

Tugboats were engaged to tow the containership westward, beyond the 200-nautical-mile limit of India’s jurisdiction. As of the latest reports, the vessel remains afloat in international waters under tow, with salvage and further safety evaluations underway.

The incident highlights the continued risks posed by cargo fires at sea and the complexity of managing such emergencies, particularly when hazardous materials may be involved. Investigations into the exact cause of the fire are ongoing, and authorities are working closely with the shipowner and classification society to determine next steps.

Source: Maritime Shipping News