(PICTURES) Debris from burning ship litters Sri Lanka's western coast

COLOMBO (News 1st); Debris from the burning container ship off the Colombo Harbour, the MV X-Press Peal has washed ashore and littered Sri Lanka's western coastline.

Sri Lankans have been warned by authorities NOT to touch any of the debris as they could be contaminated with harmful chemicals.

The Sri Lanka Navy, Sri Lanka Air Force, the Marine Environment Protection Authority, Sri Lanka Ports Authority are battling the inferno while an Indian Coast Guard Maritime Pollution Preventive Ship with firefighting capabilities is scheduled to arrive at the scene of action by nightfall‍, at the request of Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Nishantha Ulugetenne.

In addition, a Dornier aircraft carrying fire extinguishing agents and oil- dispersants are also made ready to respond in the event of an emergency.