Fire Erupts on Cargo Ship Bound for Mokpo, Three Trucks Destroyed, Four Injured

South Korea - Ekhbary News Agency

Fire Erupts on Cargo Ship Bound for Mokpo, Three Trucks Destroyed, Four Injured

A significant incident unfolded at sea as a cargo ship, originally destined for Mokpo after departing from Jeju, had to make an emergency return to Jeju Port due to a fire originating from a vehicle loaded on board. The blaze, which erupted while the vessel was at sea, led to the complete destruction of three trucks and necessitated the evacuation of four crew members who sustained injuries from smoke inhalation. Swift response and firefighting efforts by maritime and emergency services contained the situation, preventing a larger catastrophe.

According to information compiled by the Jeju Maritime Police Agency and other relevant authorities on the 6th, the fire aboard the 9,952-ton cargo vessel, identified as 'Vessel G', which was docked at Berth 10 of Jeju Port, was completely extinguished around 7:16 PM. The fire initially broke out at approximately 5:34 PM on the same day, in waters located about 17 kilometers north of Jeju Port, near Geomun-dong, Jeju City. At the time of the incident, there were 28 individuals on board 'Vessel G'. Preliminary reports indicate that the fire originated from a vehicle being transported on the ship.

Upon receiving the distress call, the Maritime Police immediately mobilized a comprehensive rescue and firefighting operation. This included dispatching four patrol vessels, one helicopter, and a special task force. Fortunately, the ship's navigational equipment was found to be in good working order, allowing 'Vessel G' to navigate back to Jeju Port under its own power, arriving around 6:25 PM. Emergency services, including the fire department, were already on standby at the port. Firefighters boarded the vessel and managed to bring the main flames under control by approximately 6:47 PM. The fire was fully extinguished roughly one hour and 40 minutes after the initial report, at 7:16 PM.

The fire caused extensive damage, resulting in the total loss of three trucks: two 7.5-ton trucks and one 5-ton truck. Of the 28 people on board, four were transported to a hospital after experiencing symptoms related to smoke inhalation. The remaining crew members were reported to be in stable condition. Records indicate that 'Vessel G' was carrying a total of 127 vehicles at the time of the incident, comprising 86 trucks and 41 passenger cars.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with maritime cargo transport, particularly concerning potential fires originating within vehicles. The large volume of vehicles carried on cargo ships means that a single vehicle malfunction or inadequate safety checks can escalate into a major incident. The enclosed environment of a cargo hold can accelerate the spread of smoke and toxic gases, significantly increasing the danger to those on board.

Maritime safety experts emphasize the critical importance of rigorous preventative measures. These include mandatory, regular inspections of vehicles before loading, stringent checks on the condition of cargo, ensuring the optimal functioning of the ship's fire suppression systems, and conducting frequent emergency response drills for the crew. Authorities are expected to conduct a thorough investigation into the exact cause of the fire to prevent future occurrences. As a vital hub for domestic and international maritime logistics, incidents like these can disrupt supply chains and raise broader concerns about maritime safety standards.

The incident underscores the need for continuous vigilance and adherence to safety protocols in the shipping industry. Investigations are ongoing to determine the precise cause of the fire, and authorities are likely to review and potentially enhance safety regulations for cargo ships carrying vehicles.

Ekhbary News Agency