SLPA Averts Disaster as Fire Erupts on Large Ship in Sri Lanka

The Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) successfully averted a disaster when a fire broke out on the MSC Cape Town III, a container ship at the Jaya Container Terminal (JCT) in the Port of Colombo. The incident occurred while unloading and loading boxes with a total of 995 boxes being unloaded and 880 boxes loaded. The ship, part of the East Africa Service, had arrived at the JCT on 11 August 2024 from Singapore and also carried 596 through cargo containers.

Reports from the SLPA indicate that the fire started in hatch area 41/43, affecting approximately 100 below deck containers and 60 deck containers before escalating into an explosion. HJKU Kumara, the SLPA’s Director of Port Operations, commended the quick response of the firefighting team led by the Harbour Master. Their prompt action prevented a potentially catastrophic event and ensured the safe removal of the affected cargo, despite the lack of prior indication of fire onboard the vessel.

Investigations are currently ongoing to determine the cause of the fire and assess the condition of the cargo. The MSC Cape Town III, built in 2006 and sailing under the flag of Madeira, remains a subject of scrutiny as authorities work to prevent future incidents and maintain safety within the Port of Colombo. The SLPA’s successful handling of the situation highlights the importance of effective coordination and response protocols in emergency scenarios within port environments.

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