Tragic Fire on Bulk Carrier MANDY Claims Lives of Two Crew Members
A devastating fire in the engine room of the Singapore-registered bulk carrier MANDY has resulted in the deaths of two crew members and left a third hospitalized. The incident occurred off the coast of China on Monday evening at approximately 7:35 p.m. Singapore Time. The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) confirmed the details of the incident, highlighting the swift action taken by the vessel’s crew to extinguish the blaze, which prevented a potentially catastrophic situation.
All 25 crew members aboard the MANDY were Myanmar nationals, and no Singaporeans were present during the incident. The MPA has expressed its condolences to the families of the deceased crew members. In a statement, the authority noted that it is in contact with the operating company and relevant Chinese authorities to provide necessary assistance following this tragic event.
Investigation and Response to the Incident
Following the fire, the MPA announced that it would launch a formal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. Engine room fires are recognized as one of the most serious hazards in maritime operations, often involving complex machinery, fuel systems, and limited escape routes for crew members. The investigation aims to uncover the cause of the fire and assess safety protocols on board.
Fortunately, authorities reported no pollution resulting from the incident, which is a relief given the potential environmental impact of such fires. The operating company of the MANDY is currently coordinating arrangements to tow the vessel to Yantai Port, China. Once there, further assessments will be conducted to evaluate the damage and determine the next steps for the ship and its crew.
The MPA’s proactive approach in addressing the situation underscores the importance of safety in maritime operations. As investigations continue, the maritime community remains vigilant about the risks associated with engine room fires and the need for stringent safety measures to protect crew members and vessels at sea.
