X-Press Pearl a write-off as fire rages
Hopes of salvaging the hull and cargo of the X-Press Pearl have faded as the fire that broke
Operations to the salvage the fire-stricken X-Press Feeders’ vessel, X-Press Pearl, are looking increasingly hopeless as a massive inferno has engulfed the 2,742-teu boxship.
The latest footage of the vessel shows that fire and smoke has spread through all sections of the vessel, raising concerns she will be a constructive loss.
The Sri Lanka Air Force is attempting to contain the fire by dropping dry chemical powder on the ship and the Indian Coast Guard has sent two offshore patrol vessels to assist.
Sri Lanka Marine Environment Protection Authority chair Dharshani Lahandapura has warned local residents to keep clear of any flotsam from the vessel as it may be hazardous.
“If there is any object or debris washed ashore in nearby areas, don’t touch or open those or have any kind of contact as it could pose severe risks,” Lahandapura is quoted as saying by local news outlet News 1st.
