Cargo Vessel Suffers Explosion, Fire off Kolkata

The 13,814 dwt general cargo vessel SSL Kolkata ignited on June 13 due to an explosion on the vessel’s deck, according to a statement from Shreyas Shipping and Logistics.

There were no reports of an oil spill in the area, according to the Indian Coast Guard, however, relevant parties are on stand-by in case an oil slick is spotted.

The incident did not result in any injuries to the ship’s crewmembers, who were safely evacuated from the vessel, the coast guard confirmed.

In a swift & valiant Rescue Operation amidst inclement weather conditions @IndiaCoastGuard ships & aircraft braves the adverse weather and rough sea to coordinate & Rescue 22 crew from a container carrier ship on fire 55 Nautical Miles at sea off #SagarIsland @DefenceMinIndia pic.twitter.com/juxUOK9S68

— Indian Coast Guard (@IndiaCoastGuard) June 14, 2018

SSL Kolkata, which was carrying 464 containers when it burst into flames, is currently off Sandheads, Kolkata.

The unit was on its way from India’s Krishnapatnam Port to the port of Kolkata.

World Maritime News Staff