The Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) has successfully averted a potential disaster after a fire broke out aboard the container vessel MV “MSC CAPETOWN III” while it was berthed at the Jaya Container Terminal (JCT) of the Port of Colombo. Swift and coordinated action by SLPA personnel prevented the situation from escalating further.
The MV “MSC CAPETOWN III,” an 18-year-old container ship built in 2006 and registered under the flag of Madeira, arrived at JCT from Singapore in the early hours of August 11, 2024. At the time of the incident, the vessel was discharging 995 boxes and loading 880 boxes as part of the East Africa Service, also known as the South Asia – East Africa Service (DAR ES SALAM SERVICE). The ship was also carrying 596 through cargo containers (out-port containers).
The fire started in the 41/43 hatch area, affecting around 100 under-deck containers and 60 on-deck containers. The situation quickly escalated to an explosion.
SLPA’s Director of Port Operations, Mr. H.J.K.U. Kumara, stated, “The vessel berthed at our terminal showed no prior signs of fire. However, during operations, our team identified the precise location from which the smoke was originating, leading to an explosion. Our firefighters, led by the Harbour Master and in collaboration with other port services, acted swiftly to extinguish the fire and safely remove the affected cargo.”
He added, “Our timely and decisive actions prevented what could have been a catastrophic event. Investigations into the cause of the fire and the status of the cargo are ongoing.”
The SLPA emphasized its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all vessels and cargo within its jurisdiction and will continue to monitor the situation closely as investigations proceed.
