Mitsui OSK Lines (MOL) said a tug boat towing the fore part of the vessel reported a fire breaking out to the rear of the section at 09-30hrs Japan time on 6 July.
The tug boat and two rescue boats have been unsuccessful in putting out the fire and the salvors have now called on the Indian Coast Guard for help. "The fire is not under control due to adverse weather yet. The salvage company has requested fire fighting assistance of Indian Coast Guard, and their patrol boat Samudra Prahari which is equipped with powerful external fire fighting system, is now proceeding to the scene," MOL said.
The 7,041 teu MOL Comfort split in two in bad weather in the Indian Ocean on 17 June.
The aft section of the vessel sank on 27 June, in water depth of 4,000 m with roughly 1,700 containers onboard.
Six sister vessels of the MOL Comfort, all built at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries are being taken out of service for hull strengthening. Lloyd’s Register has appointed to try and determine the cause of the accident.
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MOL Comfort sisterships to be sent for hull-strengthening
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