Firefighters battle Maersk Frankfurt blaze

Ongoing Battle with Container Fire Aboard Maersk Frankfurt Led by Indian Coast Guard

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) continues its relentless efforts to extinguish the container fire aboard the Maersk Frankfurt, a blaze that began following an explosion on July 19, 2024. The fire, which has persisted for over ten days, has claimed one crew member's life, although the rest of the crew remains safe on board the vessel.

The Maersk Frankfurt, a newly-built vessel chartered by Maersk, was on a voyage from India to Sri Lanka when the incident occurred. Approximately 100 nautical miles north of Goa, the ship caught fire, necessitating an immediate and extensive response from the ICG. The vessel is currently positioned about 50 nautical miles south of New Mangalore, which has become the operational base for the ongoing firefighting efforts.

The Indian Coast Guard is spearheading the firefighting operations, deploying a substantial number of resources to tackle the blaze. Five vessels, two helicopters, and a Dornier aircraft are actively involved in the mission. The helicopters have played a crucial role by air-dropping over 1,200 kilograms of dry chemical powder directly onto the fire zones. Concurrently, the ICG vessels have been instrumental in spraying millions of litres of water onto the affected areas, significantly contributing to the containment efforts.

Despite these concerted efforts, the situation remains precarious. While the primary fire has been largely subdued, there are still numerous pockets of fire and hot spots persisting throughout the vessel. Smoke continues to emanate from the ship, and the structural integrity of the container stacks has been compromised, with several collapsing due to the intense heat and flames.

Infra-red imagery analyzed by the Indian media indicates a reduction in the number of hot spots, suggesting that the situation is gradually improving. However, the exact cause of the continued fire remains unclear. The cargo manifest reveals the presence of hazardous materials, including chemicals such as benzene and sodium cyanate, which may be contributing to the persistent fires.

To further bolster the firefighting efforts, the vessel's owners have enlisted the help of a specialized salvage agency. This agency, equipped with the expertise and equipment necessary for such complex operations, has been tasked with managing the firefighting and disposal of hazardous materials. The ICG has also facilitated the boarding of five salvors onto the vessel to aid in these efforts.

The logistical aspect of the operation is equally challenging. Tugs have been continuously shuttling equipment and supplies to the Maersk Frankfurt, ensuring that the firefighting team has the necessary resources to sustain their efforts. Additionally, a larger offshore vessel, the AHTS Valiant, is en route from Sharjah, India, and is expected to arrive shortly to provide further support.

Despite the formidable challenges, the ICG remains resolute in its mission. The combination of dry chemical powder and water has proven effective in dousing significant portions of the fire, although the presence of hazardous materials necessitates ongoing vigilance and effort. The collaboration between the ICG, the specialized salvage agency, and other supporting entities underscores the complexity and scale of this operation.

The loss of one crew member early in the incident has cast a somber shadow over the operation, reminding all involved of the inherent dangers associated with maritime firefighting. However, the safety of the remaining crew members, who continue to stay on board the vessel, remains a top priority. Their resilience and cooperation have been crucial in supporting the firefighting and salvage operations.

As the firefighting efforts progress, the ICG continues to provide regular updates on the situation. The coordination between air and sea units, along with the use of advanced firefighting techniques, highlights the multifaceted approach being employed to bring the situation under control. The arrival of the AHTS Valiant and additional resources is anticipated to further strengthen the firefighting capabilities on-site.

In conclusion, the Indian Coast Guard's ongoing battle with the container fire aboard the Maersk Frankfurt is a testament to their dedication and expertise in managing maritime emergencies. The collaborative efforts of various agencies, the deployment of extensive resources, and the unwavering commitment to safety are pivotal in tackling this complex and hazardous situation. While challenges persist, the situation is gradually being brought under control, demonstrating the resilience and capability of the Indian Coast Guard and its partners.