Simulations show a 70–80% chance that debris and containers may drift south-southeast over three days, with some possibly washing ashore between Kozhikode and Kochi, authorities warned
Published Jun 09, 2025 | 10:49 PM ⚊ Updated Jun 09, 2025 | 10:49 PM
INCOIS issues drift and oil spill advisory after fire aboard container ship off Kerala coast
Synopsis: INCOIS has issued a marine advisory after a fire aboard the container ship Wan Hai 503 off Kozhikode, warning of drifting containers and possible oil spill risks. The agency deployed its Search and Rescue Aid Tool (SARAT) to track debris movement using real-time ocean and weather data, aiding authorities in monitoring and response efforts along the Kerala coast.
The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) has issued a marine advisory following the recent fire aboard the container vessel Wan Hai 503, which occurred off the Kozhikode coast.
The advisory warns of the risk of drifting containers and a potential oil spill in the area.
Responding swiftly to the maritime emergency, INCOIS activated its Search and Rescue Aid Tool (SARAT) — a sophisticated system that tracks the probable drift paths of containers, debris, or persons at sea using real-time and forecasted oceanographic and meteorological data.
Given the looming risk of an oil spill from the damaged vessel, INCOIS also deployed its Oil Spill Trajectory System, which simulates the movement and spread of oil in marine environments.
Probable oil drift pattern along Kerala coast
Using advanced ocean circulation models, the system helps identify ecologically sensitive coastal zones and supports timely containment and clean-up operations.
Simulation data suggest a 70–80 percent probability that the drifting containers, debris, and any overboard personnel may move south-southeastwards from the accident site over the next three days. While most containers are expected to remain adrift, authorities warn that some may wash ashore between Kozhikode and Kochi.
INCOIS has urged local authorities and fisherfolk along the Kerala coast to remain vigilant. Updated forecasts will be issued regularly as new data becomes available.
In a parallel advisory, INCOIS has released findings from a hypothetical simulation of an oil spill scenario. The model was based on a simulated release of 100 tonnes of bunker oil beginning at 1600 hours on 9 June.
Though the actual volume of any oil released remains uncertain, the simulation predicts the spill would drift parallel to the coastline, maintaining a consistent trajectory through 13 June.
These projections are intended to assist coastal disaster management authorities in response planning.
INCOIS continues to monitor the evolving situation and is working closely with relevant maritime and environmental authorities to mitigate risks.
(Edited by Ananya Rao with inputs from Dileep V Kumar)
