Chemical Tanker Fulda Explodes Off Kandla: Major Disaster Averted as Crew Escapes Unharmed
A massive explosion rocked a chemical tanker named Fulda, registered under the Hong Kong flag, off the coast near Kandla, Gujarat, late Monday evening, triggering a swift multi-agency emergency response. The incident occurred while the ship was anchored offshore near Deendayal Port, awaiting clearance for unloading.
Initial reports suggest that the explosion originated in one of the vessel’s chemical storage tanks. The cause of the blast remains unknown at this time. The force of the explosion destroyed a section of the tanker and ignited a fire that rapidly spread across its midsection.
Despite the intensity of the explosion, no casualties have been reported. All 21 crew members aboard Fulda have been confirmed safe, thanks to the timely activation of onboard safety protocols and rapid coordination by maritime authorities. The crew reportedly abandoned the affected section of the ship and moved to safety moments after the explosion.
The blast was first reported around 6:40 PM IST by nearby vessels and port authorities who observed flames and smoke billowing from the tanker. Within minutes, the Indian Coast Guard from Kandla and the Morbi Response Coordination Center launched a joint search-and-rescue and firefighting operation.
Specialized marine firefighting units, equipped to handle chemical-related fires, were dispatched to the scene. By late evening, the fire was reported to be under control, although localized flare-ups continued due to residual chemicals on board.
“Quick action by the crew and Coast Guard teams helped contain the situation and averted a major disaster,” a senior Coast Guard official told Gandhidham Today News. “However, the fire’s origin inside a chemical tank adds complexity, and we are taking all precautions.”
Authorities have expressed concern about potential environmental hazards, as some quantity of chemicals is believed to have leaked into the surrounding waters. While the exact type of chemicals onboard has not been disclosed, port officials confirmed that the tanker was carrying industrial solvents and flammable chemical cargo.
The Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB), along with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), has dispatched hazardous materials experts to assess the risk. Water samples are being collected, and surveillance drones are being used to monitor possible spread and surface contamination.
Deendayal Port Trust (DPT) officials stated that shipping traffic in the immediate vicinity has been temporarily suspended, and an exclusion zone has been established around the affected vessel.
As of Tuesday morning, marine safety investigators, port authorities, and representatives from the shipping company have begun a preliminary inquiry into the cause of the explosion.
The tanker Fulda was anchored approximately 8 nautical miles from the main harbor channel, in designated anchorage waters. Officials are examining whether static discharge, chemical instability, or failure in safety systems could have triggered the incident.
A senior official from the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) noted: “This is a serious marine incident involving chemical cargo. We are conducting a full safety audit and will assess compliance with IMO hazardous cargo protocols.”
Local residents in coastal areas around Gandhidham and Kandla were briefly concerned after news of the explosion circulated. However, authorities have clarified that there is no immediate threat to land-based populations.
“Air quality and shoreline safety are being monitored. There is no reason for public panic,” assured a spokesperson from the Kutch District Disaster Management Cell.
Maritime agencies have praised the coordinated effort between local, state, and national authorities, as well as the crew’s quick thinking. An official update from the Ministry of Shipping is expected later today.
For now, the focus remains on cooling down the affected vessel, neutralizing the chemical spill, and preventing any escalation.
