Merchant ship catches fire off Lakshadweep coast

A Maersk container ship, with 27 crew members on board including 13 Indians, caught fire in the Arabian Sea near Lakshadweep Islands late Wednesday (March 7) night. (Photo: ANI, All texts: PTI)

The 330-metre-long Maersk Honam, which was en route to Suez from Singapore caught fire with flames from the main deck of the ship rising up to its bridge - a height of about 25 metres. Rescue vessels were deployed soon after. (ANI  Photo)

The vessel reported an explosion and fire on board and requested immediate assistance. (IANS Photo)

The ship was at a distance of 570 kms (340 nautical miles) from Agatti in the Lakshwadeep Islands. (IANS Photo)

The crew has abandoned the ship as the fire spread beyond control. (ANI Photo)

The Coast Guard has pressed into action its assets for the rescue operation. (ANI Photo)