Image Credits - Wikipedia
A major fire broke out on the Indian Naval Ship (INS) Brahmaputra, a multi-role frigate, on the evening of July 21, 2024, while the vessel was undergoing routine refit at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai.
Despite valiant efforts by the ship’s crew and external firefighters, the blaze caused significant damage and severe listing of the warship to one side.
The fire, which erupted in the evening, was brought under control by a joint effort involving the ship’s crew, Naval Dockyard firefighters, and additional support from other naval vessels stationed in the harbour. By the early morning of July 22, the flames had been extinguished, but the damage was already severe, leading to a critical situation on board.
The listing worsened as the night progressed, and as of this morning, INS Brahmaputra remains precariously tilted, resting heavily on one side. Despite the challenging conditions, all personnel except one junior sailor have been accounted for, with ongoing search operations focused on locating the missing crew member.
An official inquiry has been initiated by the Indian Navy to thoroughly investigate the cause of the fire and the subsequent listing of the ship. The inquiry will also review the refit procedures and emergency response protocols to prevent future incidents.
Following the fire, the Indian Navy conducted sanitization checks to assess any residual fire risks and ensure the safety of the remaining crew and dockyard personnel. The navy’s swift response and ongoing investigation reflect their commitment to maintaining safety and operational readiness.