Video: Oil, chemical and LPG berths closed at Tianjin Port following massive explosion

Shipping agents Inchcape Shipping Services (ISS) said that all oil, chemical and LPG terminals were closed in the Chinese port. The explosion, which left at least 50 dead is reported to have started in container.

“ISS understands the port authority has arranged some un-berthing of bulk ships from midday local time, but there is currently no schedule for vessels berthing and it is unknown at present when the terminals will re-open,” ISS said on Thursday.

“Normal operating conditions are continuing for the loading/discharge of bulk cargo (eg coal, iron ore) and general cargo in Tianjin Xingang port.”

Tianjin Port Holdings claimed on Thursday that operations at the port were ongoing.

Agents GAC said: “Sailings in/out of Tianjin will definitely be affected and heavily delayed. At this point, it is not possible to evaluate the degree of damage suffered by containers and cargo at the port’s terminals. Clients with freight at the port are advised to liaise with their insurers.”

Footage of the blast taken a drone and posted by BBC News shows thousands of ruined containers, including some on fire – click here to view video – containers from 45 second mark.