A significant maritime emergency unfolded off the Beypore coast in Kerala on Monday, June 9, 2025, when the Singapore-flagged container ship MV Wan Hai 503 caught fire in the Arabian Sea. The vessel was en route from Colombo to Mumbai when an underdeck explosion ignited a blaze, prompting immediate evacuation and a coordinated rescue operation by Indian naval and coast guard forces.
Incident Overview
The fire broke out approximately 40 nautical miles west of the Beypore-Azhikkal port, a region known for its rich maritime history and shipbuilding traditions. Reports indicate that 18 of the 22 crew members abandoned ship due to the intensity of the fire. Five crew members sustained injuries, and tragically, four are reported missing. The blaze led to the loss of around 50 containers overboard, though no hazardous materials have been confirmed among the lost cargo.
Swift Response and Ongoing Rescue Operations
The Indian Navy and Coast Guard launched a rapid response to the distress call. The Navy deployed warships and Dornier aircraft, while the Coast Guard dispatched interceptor boats from Kochi and Beypore. The 20-year-old vessel, measuring 268.8 meters in length, was carrying 650 containers and was scheduled to transfer its cargo to a mother ship at Nhava Sheva port.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has directed district authorities in Ernakulam and Kozhikode to ensure medical treatment for the rescued crew members upon their arrival. The coordinated efforts of the Indian Navy and Coast Guard have been instrumental in averting a potential disaster at sea.
Beypore: A Maritime Hub with a Rich Legacy
Beypore, located in Kozhikode district, is one of Kerala’s oldest ports, with a history of shipbuilding dating back centuries. The town is renowned for constructing traditional wooden ships known as ‘dhows’ or ‘urus,’ which were historically used for trade with the Middle East. Today, Beypore continues to be a vital maritime hub, reflecting Kerala’s enduring connection to the sea.
Broader Implications and Maritime Safety
This incident underscores the importance of robust maritime safety protocols and the readiness of naval and coast guard forces in responding to emergencies at sea. The swift and coordinated rescue efforts highlight the effectiveness of India’s maritime security operations, such as Operation Sankalp, which aim to safeguard shipping lanes and ensure the safety of seafarers.
The MV Wan Hai 503 fire incident is a testament to the professionalism and dedication of India’s maritime forces in managing crises at sea. Their prompt response and ongoing efforts to locate the missing crew members reflect a commitment to ensuring the safety and security of maritime operations.