NewsHail
26 May 2025
A cargo ship from Liberia, MSC ELSA 3, sank off the coast of Kerala on Sunday. It was carrying 640 containers, including 13 with dangerous materials and 12 with calcium carbide. This chemical can catch fire when it touches seawater.
The ship also had 84.44 metric tonnes of diesel and 367.1 metric tonnes of furnace oil. Some of this fuel has leaked into the sea, creating an oil slick. The oil is moving toward Kerala’s shore at about 3 kilometers per hour.
All 24 crew members on the ship were rescued—21 by the Indian Coast Guard and 3 by the Indian Navy. The rescue took place in tough weather, with high winds and floating debris.
Kerala has declared an emergency and issued a warning for all coastal areas. People living near the sea have been told to stay away from any oil, containers, or strange objects that may wash up. They should not touch anything and must keep at least 200 meters away. If they see anything, they should call emergency number 112.
Fishermen have been asked to stay ashore. Some containers have already reached the coast, especially near Kollam. More may reach other areas soon.
The Indian Coast Guard has sent ships and planes to contain the oil spill. A ship named Saksham and a plane with special tools are working to stop the spread of oil. The team is following the National Oil Spill Disaster Plan.
Experts say that the oil and containers could reach areas like Alappuzha, Ernakulam, and Karunagappally within 36–48 hours. These places are rich in sea life and are popular with tourists.
The Kerala Disaster Management Authority and the Indian Navy are closely watching the situation. They are using maps and models to track the movement of the oil and containers.
This is a serious threat to the sea, fish, and coastal life. Authorities are working hard to stop the damage.
