Kollam: A potentially dangerous situation was narrowly avoided in Shaktikulangara, Kollam, when a fire broke out during the removal of a beached shipping container that had fallen from the cargo vessel MSC Els 3. The fire ignited while workers were using gas cutters to dismantle the container, with thermocol insulation inside catching fire and rapidly fueling the blaze.
Thick smoke and flames billowed into the air, intensified by strong sea winds that threatened to spread the fire. Thanks to the quick response by Fire and Rescue Services, the flames were swiftly brought under control, averting what could have been a serious coastal disaster.
The burning container was among ten that had plunged into the sea off the coast of Kochi, eventually washing ashore in Shaktikulangara, Cheriyazheekal, and Parimanam. A massive cleanup and dismantling operation is currently underway, with cranes lifting containers ashore and workers cutting them into smaller parts for transport to the port.
The effort is being coordinated with the Pollution Control Board and Civil Defence, ensuring both safety and environmental responsibility in the debris removal process.
No injuries or casualties were reported, and authorities continue to monitor the area to prevent further risks.
