June 10, 2025 | Kochi — The situation aboard the fire-stricken Singapore-flagged container vessel MV Wan Hai 503 remains critical, with fresh explosions and fires still erupting from the mid-section of the ship to the container bays just ahead of the accommodation block.
While the blaze in the forward container bay has been brought under control, thick smoke continues to hamper operations. The vessel has now developed a port-side list of approximately 10 to 15 degrees, raising further concern about stability. Several more containers have reportedly fallen overboard due to the fire and listing.
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is leading a high-stakes firefighting and containment operation. Ships Samudra Prahari and Sachet are actively engaged in firefighting (Fi-Fi) duties and boundary cooling to prevent the spread of flames. ICG Ship Samarth is also en route from Kochi, bringing in additional firefighting personnel and salvage experts.
The ICG’s swift response continues to prevent further escalation, even as efforts are being complicated by hazardous conditions on board. The incident, which began after a reported container explosion off the coast of Beypore, is one of the most serious maritime emergencies in recent months.
Authorities are monitoring the evolving situation closely, with additional safety and salvage measures being put into place to stabilize the vessel and protect the marine environment.
