- A fire erupted on a cargo vessel docked near Antwerp’s Noordkasteel bridge on 16 July, producing heavy smoke and prompting emergency alerts to residents.
- The vessel was transporting gypsum and vehicles; firefighting teams responded from both the quay and water.
- Authorities issued a BE-Alert and restricted nearby waterway traffic as investigations into the fire’s cause continue.
A cargo vessel caught fire on the morning of 16 July while berthed near the Noordkasteel bridge in the Port of Antwerp. The ship, carrying a load of plasterboard and vehicles, produced substantial smoke, leading emergency services to issue immediate public safety warnings. Residents in the surrounding area were advised to keep doors and windows closed and to turn off ventilation systems, according to Flows.
Rapid Emergency Response Contained Smoke Levels
Firefighting teams were quickly deployed to the scene, working from both the quay and a fire-fighting vessel from the port. A BE-Alert was issued to nearby neighborhoods in response to the smoke hazard. According to emergency services, smoke levels dropped significantly after the vessel’s hatches were sealed.
Navigation Restrictions in Effect Near Fire Zone
Port authorities released a nautical notice urging caution in nearby waterways. Shipping traffic has been advised to exercise care, particularly between the 5th Harbour Dock km 1 and America Dock km 1, as well as berths 345 to 347. Ventilation in the vicinity remains temporarily restricted to prevent smoke exposure.
Cause Under Investigation, Vessel Details Withheld
The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation, with no information yet available on the specific types of vehicles onboard. The vessel had recently arrived from a Dutch port and measures approximately 144 metres in length and 18 metres in width. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and assess any potential environmental or cargo-related impacts.
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Source: Flows
