Jakarta, Indonesia — A devastating explosion aboard an Indonesian tanker claimed the lives of five crew members, authorities said Tuesday. The blast occurred while the vessel was moored off the northern coast of Sumatra.
Officials reported that an additional fifteen crew members survived the incident, though several suffered severe injuries. The tanker, identified as the Dewi Madrim, was at anchor near Belawan, close to the city of Medan when the explosion took place late Monday evening.
Initial investigations suggest that the explosion was triggered in the rear section of the tanker, where fuel is typically stored. The exact cause, however, remains under detailed examination with authorities considering all possibilities, including mechanical failure and a lapse in safety protocols.
Rescue teams rushed to the scene shortly after the explosion, facing challenges due to the intense heat and the risk of further blasts. Emergency responders worked through the night to control flames that persisted after the initial explosion, complicating rescue and recovery efforts.
Local maritime safety officials emphasized the importance of stringent safety measures aboard tankers, highlighting that such vessels carry inherent risks due to the volatile nature of the substances they transport. The incident on the Dewi Madrim serves as a tragic reminder of the potential dangers.
The national transportation safety committee has initiated a thorough inquiry into the explosion, vowing to scrutinize maintenance records and safety procedures adhered to by the vessel’s crew. The findings of this investigation are awaited to help prevent future occurrences on similar ships.
Maritime experts have called for increased safety training and strict adherence to international safety standards for tanker crews worldwide. This incident sheds light on the urgent need for robust safety protocols to protect both crews and marine ecosystems from the significant risks presented by the maritime transport of fuel and other hazardous materials.
As the Dewi Madrim remains anchored off Belawan, the area has been secured by the coast guard, and maritime traffic has been redirected to ensure safety and facilitate ongoing investigative operations.
The families of the deceased crew members have been notified, and local government officials have expressed their condolences, assuring full support to those affected. The community has rallied to provide support to the survivors currently receiving medical care.
This tragic event brings to the forefront the critical issues of maritime safety and the human cost of lapses in adhering to stringent regulations designed to protect life and environment in one of the world’s most vital shipping industries.