Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, June 9: In a swift emergency response, preparations are underway at the New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA), Panambur, to receive 18 rescued crew members—five of them injured, including two in critical condition—from a Singapore-flagged container vessel that caught fire in the Arabian Sea.

The vessel, MV Wan Hai 503, enroute from Colombo to Mumbai, reported a major fire incident approximately 78 nautical miles off the Beypore coast of Kerala earlier on Monday, June 9. The Indian Navy ship INS Surat carried out the rescue operation and is expected to dock at the New Mangalore Port at around 10 pm on Monday.

Out of the 22 crew members on board, 18 have been rescued, while four remain unaccounted for. Authorities have confirmed that among the rescued, five sustained injuries, and two are in serious condition. Arrangements have been made at the port to provide immediate medical attention upon their arrival.

The rescued crew comprises nationals from four countries:

• 8 from China

• 4 from Taiwan

• 4 from Myanmar

• 2 from Indonesia

Port authorities, along with district administration, Coast Guard, medical teams, and emergency response units, are on high alert to manage the situation and extend necessary support.

Further details are awaited as efforts continue to trace the missing crew and assess the extent of the damage.