Cargo Ship MSC Elsa 3 Sinks Off Kerala Coast, Sparks Environmental Alarm
In a major maritime incident, the Liberian-flagged cargo ship MSC Elsa 3 sank off the Kerala coast, sparking fears of environmental damage as hazardous containers and fuel threaten to wash ashore. The 184-metre-long vessel, carrying 640 containers—including 13 labeled as hazardous—tilted dangerously and eventually submerged after water began seeping into its hull.
The Indian Coast Guard confirmed on Sunday that all 24 crew members, including nationals from Russia, the Philippines, Ukraine, and Georgia, have been rescued in a joint operation involving the Navy and Coast Guard assets. The last three crew members were pulled out from the vessel under risky conditions by the Indian Navy’s INS Sujata.
How the Crisis Unfolded
The vessel departed Vizhinjam port on Friday en route to Kochi. Hours later, its parent company alerted Indian maritime authorities that MSC Elsa 3 was tilting at a 26-degree angle. Emergency response units were dispatched immediately.
Coast Guard Inspector General (Western Region) Bhisham Sharma said they initially believed the ship would stabilize. “However, ingress of seawater caused the ship to sink. The Navy and Coast Guard acted swiftly, and all crew are now safe,” Sharma stated.
INS Sujata remained near the distressed ship throughout the night, eventually recovering the last three seafarers while another ship from the Liberian company reached the area for support.
Floating Containers and Hazardous Cargo: What’s at Stake
What’s left behind is far from over. The Coast Guard confirmed that several containers have broken free and are now floating in the sea—posing grave danger to nearby vessels and coastal populations.
“Some of these containers could drift to the shore. We’ve issued advisories and are coordinating with state authorities to manage the risk,” said Sharma.
According to officials, 12 of the containers held calcium carbide, a chemical compound that can react violently with water to produce acetylene gas—a flammable and potentially explosive substance. Additionally, the vessel’s tanks were loaded with over 84 metric tonnes of diesel.
Kerala’s Fragile Coastline Under Threat
The incident has raised red flags over potential oil spills or chemical contamination along Kerala’s ecologically sensitive coastline. The region is not only rich in marine biodiversity but is also a critical hub for tourism and fishing communities.
The Coast Guard has activated its pollution response protocol, deploying aircraft equipped with advanced oil spill detection technology. “At present, no oil spill has been reported. But we are monitoring the situation closely,” a statement read.
The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has issued public warnings, advising people not to approach or touch any floating containers or oil patches. “Report immediately to local police if any such materials are spotted,” KSDMA stated.
Can the Ship Be Salvaged?
With MSC Elsa 3 now submerged, maritime authorities are assessing whether the wreck can be towed or salvaged. Divers and inspection teams are expected to conduct underwater surveys in the coming days.
A defense spokesperson said that the situation remains dynamic, and another vessel from the Liberian company has joined efforts to mitigate potential risks.
Looking Ahead: Coastal Security and Environmental Preparedness
This incident has reignited conversations about India's preparedness to handle maritime emergencies, especially in eco-sensitive zones like Kerala. While the rescue operation is being lauded for its speed and effectiveness, the focus now shifts to containment and cleanup.
India’s western seaboard, frequently used for international cargo transport, may need stricter regulations and early-warning systems to prevent similar incidents in the future.
As for MSC Elsa 3, the ship may be lost, but the real challenge now lies in minimizing the ecological fallout.
