Msc-Capetown-Iii

A major catastrophe was averted at the Port of Colombo’s Jaya Container Terminal (JCT) when the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) successfully extinguished a fire aboard the 'MSC Capetown III' on Aug 11, 2024, while the vessel was discharging 995 boxes and loading 880 boxes. The fire started in the 41/43 hatch area of the vessel, affecting approximately 100 under-deck containers and 60 on-deck containers. The fire quickly turned into an explosion, but the SLPA’s firefighting team led by the Harbour Master and supported by other port services, was able to control the situation. The vessel, while docked at the terminal, showed no prior signs of fire. However, during operations, the SLPA team identified the precise location from where the smoke had started, resulting in an explosion. The firefighters responded swiftly to extinguish the fire and safely remove the damaged cargo. The ship also carried 596 out-port containers, in addition to the 995 boxes being discharged and the 880 boxes that were loaded. The Sri Lanka Ports Authority remains committed to the safety and security of its terminals and will continue to monitor the situation actively.

'Maersk Jenaz' was sold for a rumoured USD 13.5 mill. to undisclosed buyers