FishingBoat – Fire Engulfs Vessel Off Mumbai Coast, One Crew Member Injured
FishingBoat – A fishing vessel operating off the Mumbai shoreline caught fire and eventually sank in deep waters on Sunday, March 9, leaving one crew member injured and prompting a rapid rescue effort by nearby fishermen. The boat, identified as Sea Princess, belonged to Reshma Moses Dhake from Bhati Koliwada, a traditional fishing settlement in the city.
Authorities and local fishermen confirmed that seven crew members were on board the vessel when the incident occurred. The injured fisherman suffered burns but was quickly brought ashore for medical treatment. Officials have launched an inquiry to determine the exact circumstances that led to the fire.
Fire Breaks Out During Early Morning Fishing Operation
According to initial accounts from fishermen in the area, flames erupted on the Sea Princess while it was operating in deep waters off the Mumbai coast. Early reports suggest that the blaze may have started due to a stove or gas-related flare-up on board the vessel.
The front section of the boat was severely damaged as the fire spread across the deck. Crew members attempted to control the flames, but the intensity of the fire made it difficult to contain. With the situation quickly escalating, nearby fishing boats rushed toward the vessel after spotting smoke rising from the water.
Rescue teams and fellow fishermen reportedly reached the scene within about thirty minutes of the emergency.
Crew Members Rescued by Nearby Boats
Local fishing vessels played a crucial role in rescuing those on board. As the fire intensified, crew members abandoned the burning boat and moved to nearby vessels for safety.
Prabhakar Koli, president of the Bhati Koliwada Gramseva Mandal, confirmed that six crew members were safely rescued without injuries. Fishermen operating close to the Sea Princess coordinated the evacuation and ensured everyone was moved away from the burning vessel.
Eyewitnesses from nearby boats described seeing thick smoke and flames before the situation forced the crew to leave the vessel.
Injured Fisherman Suffers Burns
One crew member sustained burn injuries during the incident. Reports indicate that the fisherman suffered burns on both legs as well as one hand while trying to manage the situation on board.
He was transported to the shore by another fishing boat before being taken to Shatabdi Hospital for medical care. Doctors treating him said his condition is stable, and he is currently receiving further treatment and observation.
Local fishermen stated that the swift response from nearby boats helped ensure the injured man reached medical help without delay.
Vessel Eventually Sinks After Fire
Despite attempts to control the blaze, the fire caused extensive structural damage to the vessel. According to an eyewitness, the Sea Princess eventually sank several hours after the fire broke out.
The sinking reportedly occurred around 5 pm after the flames had already destroyed much of the boat’s front portion. By that time, all crew members had already been evacuated safely.
Marine authorities are now assessing the situation and gathering statements from the crew and witnesses.
Investigation Underway Into Cause of Blaze
Officials have begun examining the circumstances surrounding the incident. While early indications point toward a stove or gas flare-up, investigators are working to confirm the precise cause of the fire.
Authorities are also reviewing safety practices on fishing vessels operating in the region to determine whether additional precautions may be necessary.
Incidents involving fires on fishing boats remain relatively rare but can escalate quickly due to fuel, cooking equipment, and confined working spaces on board.
Local fishing community representatives have emphasized the importance of improved safety awareness and emergency preparedness to prevent similar accidents in the future.