ICG's Ten-Day Battle Against Merchant Ship Fire Off Karwar Coast

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has been working for ten days to prevent pollution and protect the marine environment after a fire broke out on the MV Maersk Frankfurt, a merchant navy ship. The ICG has deployed several ships, helicopters, and planes as part of 'Operation Sahayata'.

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) continues its tireless efforts to prevent pollution and protect the marine environment after a merchant navy ship caught fire off Karwar coast. Entering its tenth day of operation on Sunday, the ICG remains on high alert to safeguard against potential hazards.

ICG ships are conducting boundary cooling and extinguishing sporadic minor flames from the MV Maersk Frankfurt, a Panama-flagged cargo carrier that reported a major fire 80 nautical miles west of Goa on July 19. The vessel, carrying 1,154 containers including dangerous goods, is now stable and operational. One Filipino crew member is missing.

Operation Sahayata involves five Coast Guard ships, two Advanced Light Helicopters, and a Dornier aircraft. Over 1,200 kg of Dry Chemical powder has been airdropped to combat the fire. The situation has been contained, and there is no risk of pollution to the marine environment and coastal areas.