A fire on the fishing vessel DAE JIN, which docked in Suva Harbour, prompted a successful evacuation of twelve crew members, including nationals from China and Indonesia, on Wednesday night. The fire started in the engine room, and as the situation became critical, the crew decided to evacuate rather than continue battling the flames.
Joweli Cawaki, CEO of the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF), highlighted the rapid escalation of the fire and the swift actions taken by the Harbour Master and local authorities. A tugboat was dispatched to help tow the DAE JIN away from the dock, prioritizing safety given the hazardous circumstances.
As of midday Thursday, the fire remains active in the engine room but is being closely monitored by local maritime authorities. Fortunately, all crew members were able to escape, although several sustained injuries and required medical attention at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital. This incident underscores the importance of rapid medical responses during emergencies.
An investigation into the fire’s cause will be conducted by the MSAF, along with the Port Authority, as the incident occurred within port boundaries. This inquiry is essential not only for uncovering the fire’s origins but also for improving future maritime safety protocols.
The DAE JIN, built in 2001 and registered to Service Marine Ltd, continues to emit smoke offshore, serving as a poignant reminder of the critical need for robust safety measures in maritime operations.
The resilience and teamwork displayed during this incident mirror challenges faced by other vessels in Suva recently, where rough weather posed significant risks. The collaborative efforts of local authorities and maritime safety personnel showcase a dedicated commitment to ensuring the safety of seafarers.
Ultimately, the successful evacuation and forthcoming investigations present a hopeful outlook for advancements in safety standards within Fiji’s maritime industry, reinforcing the value of learning from collective experiences and enhancing emergency responses.
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