Container carrier catches fire, India deploys assets for rescue efforts

Fire breaks out onboard container vessel Maersk Frankfurt. Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Ships Sujeet and Samrat have been deployed for fire fighting efforts. The firefighting operation is currently being conducted by three ICG Ships Sujeet, Sachet, and Samrat. Persistent efforts by the ships for more than 12 hours have prevented the fire from spreading further. As of 7 AM hours on 20 Jul 2024, the Maersk Frankfurt is positioned 6.5 nautical miles south of Karwar. The vessel has been advised to alter course away from land and is currently heading on course 180 at a speed of 6 knots. However, prevailing south-westerly winds and heavy swells are posing challenges in firefighting operations.