ASDP Addresses Engine Explosion on Aceh Hebat Ferry, 15 Injured

PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) has issued a statement regarding the explosion and fire that occurred in the engine room of KMP Aceh Hebat 2 while the vessel was docked at the Ulee Lheue Port pier, Banda Aceh, on Friday (12/6).

The General Manager of the ASDP Banda Aceh Branch, Andri Setiawan, stated that the incident took place at approximately 11:13 WIB on Friday afternoon.

The explosion occurred after the ship had completed the loading and unloading process from Balohan Port, Sabang.

According to initial reports, Andri noted that the incident began with a burst in the hydraulic system of the automatic watertight doors located in the ship’s engine room. The incident caused injuries to the crew members present inside.

“The incident is suspected to have originated from a burst in the hydraulic system of the automatic watertight doors in the ship’s engine room,” Andri said in his statement.

He noted that the rapid response of the ship’s crew successfully controlled the flames within approximately three to four minutes, preventing the fire from spreading to other areas of the vessel.

Fifteen people sustained burns and have been evacuated to the Zainoel Abidin Regional General Hospital in Banda Aceh for medical treatment. Most of the burn victims are cadets from the Malahayati Maritime Polytechnic (Poltekpel) who were undergoing practical training on board the ship. The severity of the burns ranges from mild to serious.

“Around 15 people suffering from burns have been evacuated to the hospital. ASDP is also providing continuous assistance and coordinating with relevant parties to monitor the condition of the victims,” he added.

Currently, the company is coordinating with relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and examination to determine the exact cause of the explosion and fire.