Bangladesh Navy's response saves lives in shipping vessel fires: ISPR
These incidents, which occurred within five days of each other, showcased the Navy's capacity to prevent disasters and save lives, ISPR said
The Bangladesh Navy has demonstrated remarkable bravery and efficiency in controlling two major fires on Bangladesh Shipping Corporation oil tankers, "MT Banglar Jyoti" and "MT Banglar Saurabh," off the coast of Chattogram.
These incidents, which occurred within five days of each other, showcased the Navy's capacity to prevent disasters and save lives, according to a press release from Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) today.
The latest incident occurred on the night of 4 October, when a massive fire erupted aboard the "MT Banglar Saurabh" in the outer harbour of Chattogram port. The Bangladesh Navy, along with the Coast Guard, Chattogram Port Authority, and Fire Service, responded swiftly.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
After nearly four hours of intense firefighting, the blaze was brought under control with the help of three specialised Navy tugboats and four additional tugboats from the Coast Guard and port authority, the release said.
Of the 48 crew members on board, 47 were rescued, but sadly, one crew member lost his life. Several injured individuals were transported to the Navy Hospital BNS Patenga for medical care. The rapid response helped avert what could have been a far more devastating outcome.
This incident came just five days after another Bangladesh Shipping Corporation vessel, "MT Banglar Jyoti," suffered an explosion at Dock No 7 of Chattogram port, claiming the lives of three individuals.
Upon receiving the news of the fire, specialised firefighting units from the Bangladesh Navy immediately rushed to the scene, working alongside the Coast Guard, Chattogram Port tugboats, and Fire Service units to prevent further loss of life and property.
The coordinated effort successfully controlled the fire and rescued all surviving crew members, preventing the spread of crude oil that could have severely impacted the Karnaphuli River and Bay of Bengal's delicate ecosystems.
The timely response also helped prevent significant economic disruptions, safeguarding the operations of Bangladesh's busiest commercial port.
The Bangladesh Navy's success in these rescue operations has been credited to the strategic placement of highly skilled officers in key maritime positions, ensuring swift and effective leadership in times of crisis.
Their role in preventing a major disaster has drawn widespread praise and reaffirmed the Navy's commitment to national service, especially in dealing with emergencies and disasters.
