Tragic Engine Room Fire Claims Lives on Singapore-Registered Bulk Carrier
A devastating engine room fire broke out on the bulk carrier *Mandy*, a Singapore-registered vessel, while navigating off the coast of China on Tuesday evening. The incident, which occurred at approximately 7:35 PM Singapore time, has resulted in the tragic deaths of two crew members, both of whom were of Myanmar nationality. The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) confirmed the details of the incident in a notification released on Wednesday.
The *Mandy* was carrying a total of 25 crew members at the time of the fire. In addition to the fatalities, a third crew member has been evacuated to a medical facility on shore for further treatment. Fortunately, the MPA reported that no oil spill has been detected as a result of the fire, which could have exacerbated the situation.
The company operating the *Mandy* is currently making arrangements to tow the vessel to Yantai Port in China. This action is crucial for assessing the damage and ensuring the safety of the remaining crew members. The bulk carrier, built in 2010 and with a deadweight tonnage of 180,371, had departed from Singapore on February 8 and was en route to Yantai when the fire broke out.
Response and Investigation Underway
Following the fire, immediate actions were taken to secure the safety of the crew and the vessel. The MPA has been actively involved in coordinating the response efforts, ensuring that medical assistance was provided to the affected crew member. The focus now shifts to the investigation of the fire’s cause and the overall safety protocols in place on the *Mandy*.
The incident highlights the inherent risks associated with maritime operations, particularly in engine rooms where flammable materials and equipment are present. Authorities will likely conduct a thorough investigation to determine the circumstances leading to the fire and to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
As the *Mandy* is towed to Yantai Port, further assessments will be conducted to evaluate the extent of the damage and to ensure the vessel’s compliance with safety regulations. The maritime community is closely monitoring the situation, as the safety and well-being of crew members remain a top priority.
This tragic event serves as a reminder of the importance of stringent safety measures and emergency preparedness in the maritime industry, particularly for vessels operating in busy shipping lanes. The loss of life is a somber reminder of the dangers faced by seafarers worldwide.
