Hazardous cargo vessel sinks off Kerala coast, raising alarm

On May 25, 2025, India's southern state of Kerala issued a high alert following the sinking of the Liberia-flagged vessel MSC ELSA 3, approximately 38 nautical miles off the coast in the Arabian Sea. The ship was traveling between the Indian ports of Vizhinjam and Kochi when it capsized, carrying 640 containers, 13 of which contained hazardous materials, including calcium carbide. The incident was exacerbated by the flooding of one of the ship's compartments, leading to the vessel's dangerous tilt, which ultimately resulted in its sinking. Immediately after the sinking, the Indian navy successfully rescued all 24 crew members from the ship after an extensive hours-long operation. Meanwhile, local authorities issued a warning for nearby coastal areas and advised fishermen against approaching the sunken vessel. The situation has raised concerns about the leaking hazardous cargo, including 84.44 metric tons of diesel and 367.1 metric tons of furnace oil. Authorities are particularly apprehensive about the potential impact of oil and chemicals on the region's biodiversity, an important tourist destination. As containers began to wash ashore, constant monitoring by the Indian Coast Guard was initiated, and aerial surveys were conducted using aircraft equipped with oil spill detection systems. In an effort to control the pollution, a ship loaded with pollution control equipment was dispatched to the location of the accident. The urgency of the situation is compounded by the high alert issued by the Kerala chief minister's office, emphasizing the need for residents in the coastal belt to avoid touching any containers or oil that may wash ashore. There is a prevailing fear that if the oil slick spreads, it could pose significant risks to marine life and the health of local communities. With pollution control measures already intensified, state officials stress the importance of vigilance in managing the aftermath of this maritime incident.