Major Fire on Merchant Vessel Carrying Hazardous Cargo Southwest of Goa

A significant fire broke out on a merchant vessel carrying hazardous cargo 102 nautical miles southwest of Goa. The Indian Coast Guard is conducting firefighting operations in challenging weather conditions. Explosions have occurred on the vessel's front part. Additional support ships and an aircraft are involved in the rescue efforts.

A significant fire erupted on a merchant vessel carrying hazardous cargo about 102 nautical miles southwest of Goa, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) reported late Friday evening.

An ICG ship is currently engaged in firefighting operations amid harsh weather and rough seas, with two additional ICG ships en route to assist, according to an official release.

The vessel, traveling from Mundra to Colombo, was reportedly carrying International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) cargo. Explosions have been reported on its front part, stated the Coast Guard.

An ICG Dornier aircraft was dispatched for aerial assessment and to reassure the crew, who were in panic, about their safety.

(With inputs from agencies.)