An LPG carrier has exploded while underway in the Gulf of Thailand, leaving four of its ten crew hospitalised with burn injuries.
Pattarawadee 12 (1,000 dwt) discharged all its cargo at Bangpakong in central Thailand earlier today, and is thought to have been clearing its tank of remaining gas vapour when the explosion occurred, according to local reports.
“We still don’t know what caused the explosion, as the gas had been all transferred out,” said Capt. Prakob Pumprasert of Bangpakong Police Station told Khaosod.
The crew are currently in Bangpakong Hospital. Sarayut Chanpan, 21, in critical condition with burns over most of his body. The other three seafarers have been named as Sompak Nhusua, 47; Chamnan Ratrongmuang, 35; and Kachawut Sairuam, 24.
The ship is reportedly not badly damaged.
File photo.
