The fire-hit containership Wan Hai 503 has finally berthed in Jebel Ali, Dubai, ending a 13-week ordeal that began with a deadly blaze off the coast of India.
The Singapore-registered vessel caught fire on 9 June while en route from Colombo to Nhava Sheva, after an explosion in a cargo hold. Out of the 22 crew members, four were killed or remain missing, and six were injured in the accident.
Although salvors managed to stabilise the ship, Indian authorities ordered it out of their EEZ, and Sri Lanka later denied entry.
After a long tow from Sri Lanka starting on 25 August, the 2005-built, 4,333 TEU vessel reached the UAE on 11 September. Salvors confirmed there were no signs of smoke as it passed through the Strait of Hormuz.
Wan Hai said the ship’s stability and structural integrity remain secure, with no immediate risks. Cargo discharge and inspections are expected to begin in October.
