According to Marine insight reports, a tragic fire incident has struck a vessel in Myanmar’s Taninthayi Region, leading to loss of life, injuries, and extensive firefighting efforts. The fire broke out during a fuel transfer operation, highlighting the inherent risks and challenges associated with handling volatile fuels on maritime vessels. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the blaze, which required a substantial coordinated response to contain.
Incident Details and Emergency Response
The fire began on the afternoon of October 14, while the vessel was engaged in refueling operations at a port in Dawei Township. The blaze continued for over 16 hours, with firefighters, local rescue teams, and community members working together to extinguish it. Despite their efforts, the fire re-ignited due to the large fuel load, making it challenging to control. The fire was finally put out by early morning on October 15, but not before claiming eight lives and injuring three others.
Impact of the Fire and Victim Support
The incident tragically resulted in the deaths of seven men and one woman, while three individuals, including two men and one woman, sustained injuries and were transported to Dawei Public Hospital for medical treatment. The extensive fuel load of approximately 50,000 litres, including diesel and gasoline, intensified the flames, contributing to the difficulty in containment and increasing the severity of the fire. One crew member is still missing, and search efforts are ongoing.
Investigation and Safety Protocol Review
Local authorities, along with the fire service department, are conducting investigations to determine the exact cause of the fire. Initial findings suggest that the fire started during a refuelling operation involving a large storage tank. This tragic incident underscores the critical importance of strict safety protocols and risk assessment during fuel transfer processes to prevent future occurrences. Further details are anticipated as officials review safety practices to improve response and prevent similar incidents.
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Source: Marine Insight
