Dramatic Blaze Engulfs Somalia-Bound Cargo Ship at Porbandar Jetty, Gujarat

A harrowing maritime incident unfolded recently at the bustling Porbandar jetty in Gujarat, as a Somalia-bound cargo ship, the MSV Safina Al Miraj, became engulfed in a dramatic fire. The vessel, which had departed from Jamnagar, was moored at the jetty when flames suddenly erupted from its engine room, sending plumes of thick smoke billowing into the sky and drawing urgent attention from local authorities and onlookers.

The alarm was raised swiftly, prompting an immediate and coordinated response.

At least 10 crew members were reportedly onboard the cargo ship when the blaze began. Thanks to the rapid deployment of emergency protocols and the quick thinking of the crew and responders, all personnel were safely evacuated from the burning vessel, averting a potential tragedy.

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) played a crucial role in the rescue and firefighting efforts.

Their assets, including vessels and personnel, were dispatched to the scene to assist local fire brigades. Firefighters battled fiercely to bring the inferno under control, working tirelessly to douse the flames and prevent them from spreading further into the ship's cargo hold, which was reportedly laden with sugar and various other goods intended for Somalia.

The sight of the burning ship at the jetty captivated local residents and fishermen, highlighting the inherent risks involved in maritime operations.

While the exact cause of the engine room fire remains under investigation, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of stringent safety measures and swift emergency responses in the shipping industry.

Fortunately, due to the professional and coordinated efforts of the Indian Coast Guard, the local fire department, and other assisting agencies, the fire was eventually contained and extinguished.

There were no reported casualties, and while the ship undoubtedly suffered significant damage, the quick action ensured that the human cost of this dramatic incident remained zero, turning a potentially catastrophic event into a testament to effective emergency management.