Warning Issued as 17 Empty Shipping Containers Drift Off Colombo Coast

The Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources has issued an emergency alert after 17 empty shipping containers fell overboard from a merchant vessel and were reported to be drifting in the sea, approximately 17 nautical miles west of the Colombo Port.

According to the department, the incident occurred near the coordinates 06°54' North latitude and 079°32' East longitude.

Based on prevailing ocean currents, authorities have warned that the floating containers could drift towards the coastline, particularly along the coastal stretch from Beruwala to Negombo and Puttalam.

The department has advised all multi-day and small fishing vessels operating or navigating in these areas to remain highly vigilant and exercise extreme caution due to the potential danger posed by the drifting containers.

Fishermen and mariners who observe any of the containers have been requested to immediately inform the Radio Communication Centre of the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources or notify officials at the nearest fisheries harbour.