Video: Fire Breaks Out On Bangladesh-Flagged Oil Tanker At Chattogram Anchorage

A major fire incident occurred on a Bangladesh-flagged oil tanker anchored at the Chattogram anchorage, sparking immediate emergency response protocols. Port authorities confirmed that all 22 crew members were successfully evacuated without any reported casualties. While the exact cause remains under investigation, the incident highlights the critical nature of fire safety management on tankers. Emergency tugs were deployed to the Chattogram port area to contain the blaze and prevent potential environmental contamination or further damage to the vessel structure.

This incident underscores the stringent requirements of SOLAS Chapter II-2, which dictates fire protection, detection, and extinction measures for merchant vessels. Compliance with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations is mandatory for oil tankers to mitigate the high risks associated with volatile cargo. Classification societies and port state control inspectors frequently audit these safety systems to ensure that fixed fire-extinguishing systems, fire pumps, and emergency escape breathing devices remain fully operational. Failure to maintain these standards can lead to severe operational delays, heavy fines, and detention of the vessel by maritime authorities.

For masters and navigating officers, this event serves as a vital reminder to conduct frequent, realistic fire drills that simulate cargo area emergencies. Engine ratings and deck officers must ensure that all fire-fighting equipment is maintained in a state of constant readiness. It is essential for crew members to review the shipboard emergency plan and verify that all fire suppression systems are compliant with current safety management system protocols to ensure rapid response during critical maritime incidents.