A major maritime emergency unfolded on July 1, 2025, at Deendayal Port (formerly Kandla Port) in Gujarat, when a powerful explosion rocked the chemical tanker MT Fulda shortly after its departure. The vessel, which had just completed unloading a hazardous chemical cargo (methylone), was en route to Oman when the incident occurred. Though the ship was reportedly empty at the time of the blast, the explosion was forceful enough to cause the vessel to list dangerously—tilting about “22 degrees to starboard”. The ship’s master immediately sent out a distress signal, requesting urgent evacuation of all crew.
Responding swiftly, the Deendayal Port Authority deployed multiple tugs and marine firefighting teams to the scene. Within the hour, all 21 crew members, including the captain, were safely evacuated and transported to Tuna Port. Fortunately, there were no casualties or injuries reported. The vessel remains anchored, with investigations underway to determine the cause of the explosion. Maritime authorities have sealed off the area as a precautionary measure, and a team of technical experts has been assigned to inspect the vessel’s structural integrity. The incident has raised renewed concerns over chemical tanker safety protocols at Indian ports.
A. Priyadharshini
