Kerala on High Alert Following Cargo Ship Capsize and Hazardous Spill

The Indian Coast Guard has deployed resources to address the environmental threat posed by the capsized MSC ELSA 3, which lost hazardous cargo in the Arabian Sea, prompting evacuations and warnings for local residents.

Authorities in the southern state of Kerala, India, have declared an alert following the dramatic capsizing of a cargo ship carrying oil and hazardous materials off the coast near Kochi. The incident took place on Sunday when the Liberian-flagged MSC ELSA 3 developed a dangerous tilt and ultimately sank approximately 38 nautical miles from shore. Thankfully, all 24 crew members were successfully rescued by personnel from the Indian Navy.

Environmental concerns have escalated due to a significant leak of oil and other dangerous substances from the ship, which was carrying a mix of cargo including 13 containers classified as hazardous and 12 containers of calcium carbide—a chemical that reacts violently with seawater. Alarming amounts of diesel, approximately 84.44 metric tonnes, and 367.1 metric tonnes of furnace oil were also onboard.

In light of the evolving situation, the chief minister's office issued warnings advising residents in coastal communities to avoid contact with any oil spills or containers that may wash ashore. Local fishermen have also been instructed to steer clear of the sunken vessel for safety.

To counter the potential environmental impact, the Indian Coast Guard has intensified its pollution control efforts, deploying ships equipped for managing spills and aircraft with oil detection capabilities to monitor the affected area. As more containers are reported to be drifting towards the shoreline, further precautions have been recommended to safeguard both the local population and marine ecosystems from contamination.