Kochi | May 28, 2025 – Kerala is facing a looming environmental crisis after the Liberian-flagged container ship MSC ELSA 3 sank around 38 nautical miles off the coast of Kochi, triggering serious concerns about an oil spill and chemical contamination.
The incident, which occurred on May 25, 2025, involved a vessel carrying 640 containers, including 13 with hazardous materials and 12 containing calcium carbide, along with 84.44 metric tons of diesel and 367.1 metric tons of furnace oil.
While all 24 crew members on board were successfully rescued, the aftermath has posed a significant threat to marine ecosystems, coastal communities, and the state’s fishing industry.
Environmental Concerns Escalate
Several containers have already begun to wash ashore in Kollam and Alappuzha districts, prompting state-wide anxiety over potential contamination.
Experts from the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) have warned that leakage from the sunken vessel could gravely disrupt marine life, especially during the monsoon season — a critical breeding period for pelagic fish. An oil spill of this scale could also lead to long-term damage to coastal biodiversity and local livelihoods.
Government and Coast Guard Response
The Indian Coast Guard has deployed aircraft equipped with pollution detection technology and vessels carrying spill control equipment. Initial aerial surveys are ongoing to assess the extent of the pollution threat.
Kerala’s Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan convened a high-level emergency meeting, after which a ban on fishing within 20 nautical miles of the wreck site was imposed. Emergency teams have been formed to clear floating debris and secure coastal areas from potential oil slicks. Public warnings have also been issued advising citizens not to approach washed-ashore materials.
Kerala’s Lack of Contingency Plan Under Scrutiny
Despite the state’s extensive coastline, Kerala currently lacks a state-level oil spill disaster contingency plan. The Kerala State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) has no immediate capability to deal with large-scale maritime chemical leaks, as tenders to create a full-fledged contingency plan remain pending.
While Kochi Port has localized emergency protocols in place under national guidelines, other ports in the state, such as Vizhinjam, are reportedly unequipped for emergency pollution containment.
Urgent Call for Preparedness
The sinking of MSC ELSA 3 serves as a wake-up call for Kerala’s maritime safety systems. Environmentalists and marine experts are urging the government to fast-track the creation of a comprehensive oil spill and hazardous waste response framework.
With the Arabian Sea being a critical route for global shipping, the incident underscores the pressing need for proactive environmental safeguards and disaster readiness.
Disclaimer
This article is based on information available as of May 28, 2025. Details may evolve as more official updates are released. Readers are advised to follow verified government and marine authority sources for the most current information.
Image and Source Credits:
Onmanorama, PTI, Times of India, The Hindu, CMFRI
