MV Wan Hai 503 Fire Continues; Hydrocarbon Leak Sparks Concern

Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala: Concerns are mounting due to the hydrocarbon release near the fuel tank of the burning ship. Singapore-flagged vessel named M V Wan Hai 503 carrying 2000 tonnes of oil and 240 tonnes of diesel caught fire off Kerala’s Kannur coast on June 9.

According to the latest government report, the salvage team engaged in the MV Wan Hai 503’s firefighting and rescue operations has reported continued hydrocarbon emissions, denoting potential fuel tank involvement. Also, the detection of hydrocarbon vapours pointed to the chances of heat transfer near the fuel tanks.

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Since there was a possibility for a Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapour Explosion (BLEVE), authorities have been closely observing the changes happening on the ship. As the fire is moving with intensity near the fuel tank of the ship, the liquid form of the fuel may evaporate, and the vapour, which is more dangerous when it evaporates in the presence of high temperature, will result in an explosion.

The active fire is currently under control through continuing boundary cooling and firefighting efforts. Onboard assessments are continuously taking place to monitor any escalation.

Though the ship remains structurally afloat, it poses a continued risk due to the hazardous cargo onboard. The vessel is floating within the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Indian Coast Guard (ICG) vessels and aircraft are actively participates in the firefighting measures. Only smoke is visible across the cargo holds and bays, yet the fire persists in the inner decks and areas near the fuel tanks.

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The presence of fuel and containers, particularly hazardous cargo, makes M V Wan Hai 503 a significant threat to the marine environment and nearby shipping routes. Though the immediate focus is on containing the fire, authorities are also considering measures to pull the ship away from the coast to a safer location and prevent a potential ecological disaster.

(With inputs from the Hindu)