Dubai port explosion: Container ship explosion causes huge fire

09 Jul 2021 CW Team

An explosion on a container ship docked at Dubai's Jebel Ali port caused a massive fire on the vessel late Wednesday.

The explosion took place in the container aboard the vessel, preparing to dock away from the Jebel Ali Port's main shipping line and shook the gleaming commercial hub of the United Arab Emirates.

Authorities told the media that there were no reported deaths or casualties, and the fire is under control. Around 14 sailors were aboard the ship, and they were rescued safely.

Director-General of Dubai Civil Defence Major General Rashid Thani Al Matrooshi told the media that the Port fire has been brought fully under control and the cooling process is going on.

Teams took 40 minutes to control the blaze. Jebel Ali Port is the ninth-largest port in the world and the biggest in the region.

A loud explosion was heard by residents from Marina, JVC, and Emirates Hills, that shook their doors and windows.

Commander-In-Chief at Dubai Police, Lt General Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri, said that the fire occurred on a cargo ship at dockside 14.The ship was transporting 130 containers, and three containers carried flammable materials.

He further added that there were no explosives or radioactive materials inside it, and an investigation is ongoing to determine the cause behind the fire.

The port authorities said they took all necessary measures to ensure the movement of ships normally, in the port.

The port was constructed in the late 1970s to supplement the facilities at Port Rashid and is not only a significant global cargo center but a lifeline for Dubai and surrounding emirates.

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