Km-Dharma-Rucitra-Vi Ship Details and Seafarer Feedback

On August 11, 2024, a serious fire broke out on the KM 'Kirana 1', a ferry operating near Semarang, Central Java, specifically around Tanjung Emas Port. The incident occurred around 4:15 p.m. WIB, when the vessel was approximately three nautical miles from the port pier, positioned at 110°24'564" E and 6°55''067" S. Fortunately, no passengers were onboard during the emergency, as the ferry was undergoing repairs with 52 crew members present—21 core crew, 24 vendor crew, and seven technicians. The fire ignited after an explosion was heard from the middle deck, leading to flames rapidly spreading throughout the ship. Despite the crew's immediate efforts to extinguish the blaze, they were forced to abandon ship, jumping into the sea for safety. The evacuation was carried out efficiently, with assistance from nearby vessels, including the 'Ditpolairud Polda Jateng', and tugs 'Nusantara VIII', 'Krisna 315', and 'Satria Laksana 127'. Authorities and emergency services are currently working to identify the cause of the fire, although investigations will commence in earnest once the flames are fully extinguished. On-site personnel from Ditpolairud are maintaining a watchful presence in the area, continuing assistance with the firefighting efforts while ensuring the safety of the surrounding waters. It's important to note that strong winds have proven to be a significant challenge in suppressing the fire. The KM 'Kirana 1' had recently docked at Tanjung Emas Port on the evening of August 10, transporting passengers from Sampit Port in Central Kalimantan. After disembarking passengers, the ship was relocated to an anchorage channel that morning. For ongoing updates and images from the scene, visit: https://www.kompas.id/baca/nusantara/2024/08/11/km-kirana-1-terbakar-di-semarang-lalu-lintas-pelayaran-tak-terganggu.