Fire broke out in the cargo holds of one of Pacific International Lines’ (PIL) container-carrying general cargo ships in the morning of 18 December.
New Zealand’s Transport Accident Investigation Commission said that the incident happened while the 1,497TEU Kota Bahagia was berthed in Napier port.
The commission, which is investigating the cause of the fire, said that all crew on Kota Bahagia have been accounted for. An inquiry is opened when the commission believes the circumstances of an incident is – or is likely to have – significant implications for transport safety, or when the inquiry may allow the commission to make findings or recommendations to improve transport safety.
Chief accident investigator Harald Hendel said, “The Investigation team have expert knowledge of marine operations, engineering, maintenance and electronic forensics.
“Their initial work will include interviewing witnesses and inspecting affected parts and cargo of the ship when safe to do so.”
PIL said in a statement to Container News that the fire happened during normal cargo operations.
The Singaporean liner operator stated, “The fire was immediately extinguished with assistance from the terminal. All personnel including the crew are reported safe and there was no environmental damage or pollution caused. PIL is working closely with local authorities to investigate the causes of the fire and will do all necessary to restore vessel operations.”
Photo of fire on Kota Bahagia (credit Transport Accident Investigation Commission)
Martina Li
Asia Correspondent
