Fire on cargo ship at Aberdeen’s South Harbour prompts extensive response

Firefighters manage complex situation on MV Lowlands Diamond without wider threat.

This afternoon, the aftermath of a significant fire aboard the MV Lowlands Diamond, a large cargo ship, was evident as heaps of burnt cargo were removed from the vessel at Aberdeen’s South Harbour. The incident, which began three days ago, has drawn considerable attention due to the complexity and unusual nature of the blaze.

Details of the incident

The fire originated in the cargo hold of the MV Lowlands Diamond, which is registered under the flag of Panama. Firefighters were first alerted to the situation earlier this week when reports indicated a suspected fire contained within one of the ship’s cargo holds.

The vessel had docked in Aberdeen on January 22, and since then, multiple fire crews, including specialized marine firefighters, have been working tirelessly to manage the situation.

Firefighting efforts and safety measures

Area Commander Andrew Wright provided updates on the firefighting efforts, stating that the incident was both complex and unusual for the service.

He emphasized that the fire posed no immediate danger to the ship itself or the surrounding community. “The vessel made its way to Aberdeen South Port where we are working with marine firefighting specialists to offload the affected cargo and safely extinguish the fire,” he explained. The safety of the crew has been confirmed, and they are reported to be safe and well.

Community impact and ongoing operations

Officials from the Port of Aberdeen have been actively supporting the fire service throughout this incident. A spokesperson for the port noted that operations at South Harbour have not been disrupted despite the ongoing firefighting efforts. “There has been no disruption to operations at South Harbour,” they stated, reassuring the public that the situation is being handled effectively. The response teams are expected to remain on-site for several days as they continue to manage the aftermath of the fire and ensure that all safety protocols are followed.

This incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by emergency services when dealing with maritime fires, particularly those involving cargo ships. The collaboration between local fire crews and marine specialists highlights the importance of preparedness and swift action in such unusual circumstances.