A fire onboard a Wan Hai container vessel has caused significant damage to a large number of containers, creating complex challenges for the ongoing unloading operations.
The incident led to multiple onboard fires, which severely affected structural components, including steel plates and hatch covers.
Many of these sections have melted or deformed due to extreme heat, requiring specialised cutting techniques to safely access the cargo.
Burnt debris and scrap materials also need to be carefully collected and transferred using heavy machinery and flatbed trucks.
Meanwhile, each container must be individually secured with slings and lifted ashore by crane.
READ: Wan Hai 503 fire raises ecological disaster fears
All recovery and unloading operations are being conducted under the close supervision of professional teams to ensure safety and operational efficiency.
As of 18 October 2025, a total of 356 containers have been successfully unloaded, with 1,366 containers still remaining.
Wan Hai Lines, together with onsite experts, continues to address these challenges and is actively working to accelerate the unloading process without compromising safety standards.
READ: Indian coastal police takes legal action over Wan Hai 503 fire
The company expressed its gratitude to all relevant authorities, partners, and professional teams for their support and collaboration throughout this recovery effort.
Wan Hai Lines emphasises that safety remains the top priority, and all measures are being taken to manage the complex operations efficiently while safeguarding personnel and cargo.
