Tanker bound for Oman reports explosion off Gujarat coast; all 21 crew evacuated

A tanker vessel bound for Oman reported an explosion shortly after completing a methanol discharge at the Deendayal Port in Kandla, Gujarat, prompting a swift response from the port and Coast Guard authorities, a port official said on Sunday.

However, no fire or smoke was reported in the incident, the official said.

Speaking to sources, the Public relations officer (PRO) for the Deendayal Port Authority, Om Prakash Dadlani, said that a total of 21 crew members were onboard the tanker vessel, who were later safely evacuated by the rescue team.

Earlier on July 1, demonstrating rapid operational readiness and its unwavering commitment to seafarer safety, the Indian Navy undertook a high-risk firefighting and rescue operation on board Palau-flagged tanker MT Yi Cheng 6 on 29 June 2025 in the North Arabian Sea, successfully stabilising the situation and ensuring the safety of 14 Indian crew members.

According to a release, in the early hours of 29 June, INS Tabar, on a mission-based deployment, received a Mayday distress call from MT Yi Cheng 6.

The vessel reported a major fire outbreak in its engine room whilst operating approximately 80 nautical miles east of Fujairah, UAE.

Responding swiftly, INS Tabar proceeded at maximum speed to assist. The ship reached the vicinity of the distressed vessel and, upon arrival, established communication with the Master of the vessel and commenced firefighting operations.