Dhaka, Bangladesh — A major explosion onboard the shuttle tanker Banglar Jyoti sent shockwaves through the maritime community when it erupted near the ship’s bow on Monday at approximately 11:00 local time. The 14,500DWT vessel was subsequently engulfed in flames, prompting an intense three-hour battle by local firefighting teams to extinguish the blaze.
The incident took place while the tanker was stationed near the coast of Bangladesh, an area bustling with marine traffic. Authorities are now piecing together how the explosion in the forepeak stores area could have occurred, considering this section of a ship typically houses equipment rather than cargo.
Eyewitness accounts from other vessels in the vicinity detail a loud explosion followed by visible flames and smoke rising from the tanker. Emergency teams, including coast guard units, were dispatched promptly to the scene to aid in firefighting efforts and ensure the safety of the tanker’s crew.
Upon bringing the fire under control, search and rescue operations commenced. Teams boarded the still-smoldering vessel to search for any crew members who might have been trapped or injured during the incident. Details on the number of crew aboard at the time of the explosion and the extent of any injuries have not yet been disclosed.
The Banglar Jyoti was moved to a nearby anchorage following the fire, where it currently remains under investigation. The anchorage area has been secured by maritime authorities to facilitate an uninterrupted inquiry into the cause of the explosion and to assess the damage to the tanker.
This incident raises concerns about safety protocols on similar tankers, especially those operating in or near Bangladeshi waters. Industry experts emphasize the importance of rigorous maintenance and adherence to safety standards to prevent such dangerous incidents.
Environmental impact is also a significant concern, with authorities closely monitoring the situation for any signs of an oil spill or other pollution as a result of the explosion and subsequent fire. So far, there have been no reports of environmental damage, but containment and cleanup measures are on standby.
Maritime safety analysts are calling for thorough checks and balances, suggesting that this incident could serve as a vital learning point for tanker operations globally. Recommendations for improved safety measures and stricter enforcement of existing regulations are expected to surface as the investigation progresses.
The local maritime community remains on alert as the investigation into the Banglar Jyoti continues, with the outcomes likely to influence future safety protocols in the industry. The incident not only underscores the potential hazards associated with maritime oil transport but also highlights the critical role of emergency response and preparedness in mitigating such risks.