Beaches On Alert After Cargo Ship Carrying Dangerous Goods Sinks
Authorities in Thailand have issued a warning to residents and tourists in Phuket after a cargo ship carrying dangerous goods sank off the island’s coast.
The feeder-size container vessel, Sealloyd Arc, went down on Saturday after taking on water and developing a severe list while sailing approximately 10 nautical miles (18.5 km) from Koh Kaew Noi.
During the incident, around 200 containers fell into the sea, along with bunker fuel, raising serious environmental concerns. Marine officials confirmed that 14 of the lost containers were carrying dangerous goods.
These included hydrogen peroxide, glacial acetic acid, wet batteries, ethyl acetate, refined petroleum, flammable resin solution, flammable solids and fire extinguishers. Many of these substances are highly flammable, while some pose risks to human skin and respiratory systems.
Members of the public have been strongly advised not to approach, open or touch any containers or spilled materials that may wash ashore. Officials recommend keeping at least 50 metres away from any containers found at sea or on beaches.
The ship was en route from Malaysia to Bangladesh when it encountered difficulties. A high-speed rescue boat was dispatched following a distress call, and all 16 crew members were safely evacuated.
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