KMP Batumandi catches fire while approaching Merak, all safe
ASDP said all passengers and crew were evacuated, while the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
KMP Batumandi caught fire during the berthing process toward Pier VI at Merak Port, Cilegon, Banten, Tuesday afternoon, while serving the Bakauheni-Merak route. PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry said the first sparks were seen around 16.15 WIB at the stern of the ship, specifically the upper deck for small vehicles. The Banten Search and Rescue Office received a report from Vessel Traffic Service Merak at 16.24 WIB and immediately deployed the USS Merak rescue team, Banten SAR personnel and KN SAR Tetuka to the scene. The incident point was about 0.54 nautical miles from Pier 6 at Merak Port. ASDP said all passengers and crew had been successfully evacuated. The cause of the fire and the exact number of people aboard are still being tallied.