MARITIME ACCIDENT: Korean tanker major fire, crew evacuated in Shanghai

By Our Correspondent

A fire erupted on board of tanker NEW BRIGHT in the afternoon December 21, 2023 when the ship was sailing downstream in Yangtze river, near Sutong Bridge, Shanghai, en route from Changzhou to Incheon Korea, according to FleetMon.

It stated: “It was a major fire, all 22 crew were evacuated, tanker developed heavy starboard list and stern tilt, but remained afloat with AIS still on, as of 0200 Beijing time December 22, 2023. Fire engulfed, it seems, cargo tanks area, after explosion, tanker was in ballast.

“Tanker is surrounded by a number of tugs and aux vessels salvage under way. Tanker is probably, intentionally grounded, to avoid sinking or capsizing in or near fairway.”