MV X- Press Pearl on fire. Image Credit: Indian CG

Five days ago, a Singapore-flagged container ship, MV X-Press Pearl, anchored off the coast of Sri Lanka just 9.5 nautical miles (18km) northwest of Colombo, after a fire which eventually led to an explosion on Tuesday, prompted the crew’s evacuation.

Navy spokesman Indika de Silva said that the ship’s crew were evacuated after an explosion. Several containers ended up in the sea due to the blast.

The fire is believed to have been caused by chemicals being transported. The ship was carrying 1,486 containers, including 25 tonnes of nitric acid along with other chemicals, which were loaded onto the ship in Hazira port, India, on May 15th.

Image Credit: Sri Lanka Air Force Media via Reuters.

The crew members of the vessel have been evacuated by the Sri Lanka ships. The nationalities of the crew members are Russian, Chinese, Philippines and Indian. India sent ships to extinguish the huge blaze that engulfed the ship. Five tugboats are currently fighting the fire, while a Sri Lanka navy ship is anchored closeby.

More details to follow.

Published by truthisacommodity

Residing on the small island of Malta, I have developed a keen interest in foreign politics and science and in bringing truth to my audience by providing daily news! Email: info@whatnownews24.com View all posts by truthisacommodity