Indian Navy Swiftly Responds to Oil Tanker Fire in Gulf of Oman, Averts Major Disaster

The Indian Navy responded swiftly to a major fire on oil tanker MT Yi Cheng 6 in the Gulf of Oman. INS Tabar deployed firefighting teams to assist 14 Indian-origin crew members. The fire was brought under control, averting a maritime disaster. Containment efforts are still ongoing.

The Indian Navy mounted a rapid and effective rescue operation after a Pulau-flagged oil tanker, MT Yi Cheng 6, caught fire in the Gulf of Oman on Sunday. The tanker, en route from Kandla in India to Shinas in Oman, suffered a massive engine room fire and total power failure, placing all 14 crew members — all of Indian origin — at serious risk.

INS Tabar, a stealth frigate of the Indian Navy, responded immediately to the vessel's distress signal. The Navy deployed a specialized firefighting team using both a ship's boat and helicopter to reach the stricken tanker. A total of 13 Indian naval personnel, along with 5 crew members from the vessel, launched a coordinated firefighting mission onboard.

The Navy reported that the fire's intensity had been significantly reduced by their efforts, though containment operations are ongoing. Their prompt and efficient action prevented what could have escalated into a large-scale maritime disaster, especially given the flammable cargo typically carried by oil tankers.

According to updates shared by the Indian Navy, all crew members remain accounted for, and no injuries have been reported. The combined team continues to stabilize the situation while ensuring the safety of all personnel involved. The incident underscores the Indian Navy’s increasing role in regional maritime security and its capability to respond effectively to emergencies in international waters.

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This operation highlights India’s commitment to maritime safety in critical sea lanes and the readiness of its naval forces to assist in times of crisis, reinforcing trust in India's naval diplomacy and humanitarian outreach.