The fire-damaged containership Wan Hai 503 is being towed to the Middle East as the shipping company seeks a port of refuge. The vessel has been at sea for 78 days since a fire erupted while it was off the coast of India on June 9, shortly after departing from Colombo, Sri Lanka. Wan Hai announced the tow is underway, but the final destination remains uncertain, following Sri Lanka’s rejection of a docking request and India’s earlier directive not to accept the ship.
Currently, the vessel’s stability and structural integrity are deemed adequate for safe towing. The shipping company, in collaboration with a salvage team, is monitoring the situation closely. Reports indicate that while there are no visible flames, one hold still shows signs of smoldering, and temperatures aboard have been reduced. Salvors have successfully boarded the ship to dewater the holds and engine room.
The Wan Hai 503 will be towed approximately 1,800 nautical miles across the Arabian Sea. The UAE’s deep-water ports are seen as a potential refuge due to their container handling capabilities. Previous incidents, like the Maersk Frankfurt, have set precedents for such long tows following container fires. Recent images show significant damage to the ship’s forward sections, but it remains on an even keel after dewatering efforts.
