Fuel transfer accident claims damages, lives

During the fuel transfer from an oil tanker to a cargo vessel in the Yangon River yesterday, an overheated submerged pump caused an explosion, resulting in damages and casualties, according to the Fire Service Department.
The explosion caused a loss of 800 gallons of fuel and damages to the oil tanker’s tank and deck. What is even more tragic is the loss of lives of Ko Than Lwin (25) and Ko Waiyan Tun (19), who were on the cargo vessel. Another crew member, U Than Oo, sustained injuries, while Ko Aye Min Htwe and Ko Kyaw Lin are currently missing.
The initial findings indicate that the Konda-6 diesel tanker was in the process of transferring 2,500 gallons of fuel to the MV Singaza cargo vessel when the submerged pump in use exploded as a result of overheating.
The incident happened at 2:23 am near the Bagaya Port in Kyimyindine Township, Yangon Region. Fire stations in Kyimyindine, Sangyoung, Ahlon, and Kamayut despatched fire engines to the site.
Additionally, the firefighters collaborated with charity organizations and sent out boats containing small fire engines to kill the fire. The Nattha fire-extinguishing vessel from the Inland Water Transport also joined in the effort.
A firefighter shared his experience on social media, recalling, “The most thrilling moment was when we navigated across the river in a boat with portable fire engines in the dark”.
The firefighters managed to subdue the fire at 3:07 am and finally extinguished it at 3:35 am. The explosion reportedly shocked and awakened the residents in surrounding neighbourhoods.
The authorities are investigating the explosion. — TWA/NT