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Oil Spill Fears as MSC ELSA 3 Capsizes Near Kerala Coast

Oil Spill Fears as MSC ELSA 3 Capsizes Near Kerala Coast

A container ship has capsized in the Arabian Sea, approximately 38 nautical miles off the coast of Kochi. The vessel was sailing from Vizhinjam to Kochi when the incident occurred on Saturday. It was scheduled to reach Kochi at 10 PM on May 24 before proceeding to Thoothukudi. 

MSC ELSA 3, a 184-metre-long container ship sailing under the Liberian flag, departed Vizhinjam Port on 23 May. On Saturday at around 1:25 PM, the vessel reported a 26-degree list, positioned approximately 38 nautical miles southwest of Kochi. Operated by MSC Ship Management, the ship was en route to Kochi when the crew alerted Indian authorities and requested immediate assistance.

The vessel sank on Sunday, 25 May, releasing additional containers into the sea and heightening concerns over potential environmental damage. The Indian Navy is currently assessing towing options to minimise further impact.

Out of the 24 crew members aboard, 21 were rescued on Saturday. The remaining three, who had stayed onboard under company instructions, were safely evacuated early Sunday morning as conditions deteriorated.

The exact cause of the vessel’s tilting remains unclear, however, strong winds, rough seas, or improper loading are considered possible factors. The ship was carrying approximately 400 containers.

The vessel was reportedly carrying 367.1 metric tonnes (MT) of Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO) and 84.4 MT of Marine Gas Oil (MGO). Several containers have drifted as far as a kilometre from the site of the sinking, prompting authorities to issue warnings to fishermen and coastal residents in Ernakulam and Alappuzha districts. There is growing concern over the risk of oil spills and their potential impact on the marine environment.

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The State Disaster Management Authority has cautioned the public against approaching or handling any containers that may wash ashore, as they could contain hazardous materials. Residents are also strongly advised to stay away from any drifting cargo for their safety.

MMJ News Desk
Author: MMJ News Desk

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