Ship catches fire in Kochi, efforts taken to douse flames

KOCHI: A ship caught fire while undergoing repair works at a private shipyard in Vypin. The incident happened at Kalamukku in Vypin. The fire broke out on a foreign ship, which had been undergoing repairs at a private shipyard ‘Sea Blue’ for the past few days. Fire and smoke were seen emanating from the side of the ship's engine at around 4 am Monday morning.

The incident was first seen by the fishermen, who were nearby. They immediately informed the fire department. Seven units of the fire department reached the spot and tried to douse the flames. The fire is still not completely extinguished. The real cause of the accident is not clear.

When the fire broke out, the employees were carrying out repair works on the top portion of the ship. Since the ship was lying in the yard, a major accident was averted. The fire spread to the top of the ship in minutes. The ship had also conducted a trial run the other day after the repair works. There is a doubt whether it was refueled. There is also the presence of materials, including paint, which helps in burning. Due to the heavy smoke, the fire department found it difficult to enter the ship.

This is usually where many boats and ships come for repairs. However, locals said the private shipyard does not have a license from the panchayat and is operating illegally. Moreover, this shipyard is located next to a school. There are also allegations that the operation is in violation of the pollution control board's stop memo.