Feature Image: © Indian Coast Guard
Indian authorities have successfully towed the Wan Hai 503 further offshore to contain the fire and reduce environmental risks.
Since last week’s high alert – when the 269-metre ship was drifting perilously close to Kerala’s coast with fire still raging in its inner decks – salvors, supported by the Indian Navy and Coast Guard, have managed to secure the vessel approximately 45 nautical miles from shore and position it in waters over 1,000 metres deep, as reported by The Times of India.
This move follows a helicopter operation in which salvage teams were winched onto the burning ship to attach tow lines, despite persistent hotspots and unfavourable sea conditions.
READ: Wan Hai 503 fire raises ecological disaster fears
According to the Indian Ministry of Defence, “moving the vessel to deep water has reduced the immediate threat to the coast,” with firefighting efforts ongoing and dense smoke still visible from the midsection, as covered by The Hindu.
Authorities continue to monitor the vessel closely, as over 2,000 tonnes of fuel and hazardous cargo remain on board.
The Directorate General of Shipping has reiterated warnings regarding potential debris, after at least 24 containers were lost overboard during the incident. Local communities have been advised to avoid any washed-up material.
The search for the four missing crew members continues, with aerial and surface patrols maintained by the Coast Guard and Navy. Of the 18 rescued, most have now been discharged from the hospital, with only two still receiving treatment for injuries.
While the cause of the fire remains under investigation, officials have confirmed that the situation is “largely under control” but not fully extinguished as of 16 June.
