Kochi, 14 June 2025 — In a major breakthrough in the ongoing firefighting and salvage efforts for MV Wan Hai 503, the distressed container vessel is now being safely towed away from the Indian coastline, thanks to a coordinated operation by the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force.
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Ocean-Going Tug Takes Charge After Critical Tow Transfer
On 13 June, the ICG successfully transferred the tow of the burning MV Wan Hai 503 to the ocean-going tug Offshore Warrior. The ICG had been holding the ship in position offshore for several days but was limited by the bollard pull — the towing power — of its vessels. The situation turned critical when sudden adverse weather and strong westerly winds pushed the vessel dangerously close to shore.
Navy Helicopter Braves Storm to Deploy Salvage Team
Despite restricted aerial operations due to deteriorating weather, a Navy Sea King helicopter launched from Kochi around 5 PM on 13 June. Braving extremely difficult conditions, the crew winched a salvage team aboard the drifting vessel. Shortly after, the salvage team connected a 600-metre tow line to the Offshore Warrior, located about 20 nautical miles off Kochi.
The vessel is now being towed westward at approximately 1.8 knots and is currently 35 nautical miles off the coast.
Firefighting Efforts Continue Onboard
Three Indian Coast Guard Offshore Patrol Vessels are escorting MV Wan Hai 503 while continuing firefighting efforts. According to the latest update, only thick smoke and a few residual hotspots remain onboard — a clear indication of the sustained and effective firefighting conducted by the ICG over the past week.
This proactive operation has significantly reduced the risk of an environmental catastrophe.
Coastal Safety and Environmental Protection a Top Priority
The Indian Coast Guard is closely coordinating with the Directorate General of Shipping to ensure that the vessel remains at least 50 nautical miles away from the Indian coastline. The final disposition of the ship will be determined by its owners, in line with international maritime protocols.
Additional firefighting tugs are expected to arrive shortly, further stabilising the situation.
A Unified Response to a Maritime Emergency
This successful operation underscores the synergy between India’s maritime forces. The Indian Coast Guard, in collaboration with the Navy, Air Force, state agencies, and private salvors, has once again demonstrated its readiness and capability to handle maritime emergencies while protecting human life, property, and the marine environment.
The MV Wan Hai 503 incident marks one of the most complex joint operations undertaken in recent times, reinforcing India’s commitment to maritime safety and environmental stewardship.
