Hambantota International Port (HIP) has clarified that only one vehicle was severely damaged and three others sustained minor damage following a lightning-related fire at the port on October 31.
The clarification comes following earlier reports of several vehicles being damaged in a fire during heavy rainfall at the port.
In a statement, HIP said the fire was caused by a lightning strike and that its Emergency Response Unit (ERU) responded immediately, extinguishing the flames before they could spread to surrounding vehicles.
“Contrary to reports suggesting widespread damage, only one vehicle was severely damaged, while three others sustained minor damage,” the port said.
HIP said the swift response of its emergency team helped contain the fire, protect nearby cargo and minimise potential losses.
The port further stated that its emergency response teams are trained to handle such incidents and have previously assisted neighbouring communities during fire emergencies.
The clarification provides an updated assessment of the damage following the incident, confirming that four vehicles were affected, with only one sustaining severe damage. (Newswire)
