A fire that broke out aboard a cargo vessel at Paradip Port in Odisha was quickly contained by port authorities during early-morning loading operations. The incident occurred while the bulk carrier was being loaded with thermal coal at the Chennai Radha berth shortly after midnight.

According to port officials, smoke was first detected in the cargo area at around 12:55 a.m. The vessel was immediately shifted to the CQ-2 berth to allow safer firefighting access. Response teams from the port and the local fire service began cooling the heated coal with continuous water spray, bringing the situation under control within minutes.

Preliminary assessments suggest the fire may have been triggered by heat buildup within the coal cargo, which can ignite if not adequately cooled or watered during handling. Authorities have launched a formal investigation to determine the exact cause and to review loading procedures.

No injuries were reported among the vessel’s crew or port workers. Operations at other berths remained unaffected and resumed normally once the fire was fully extinguished.

Port officials stated that safety protocols were followed promptly and credited the quick response for preventing further escalation.