THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Keralites woke up on Saturday, May 24, 2025 to the horrifying news of a Liberian-flagged cargo ship, MSC Elsa 3, sinking just 27 km away from the State’s coast, spilling hazardous cargo of calcium carbide, diesel and furnace oil.
The 184-metre-long container vessel had sailed from the Vizhinjam port near Thiruvananthapuram on May 23 for Kochi, with entry and docking scheduled for Saturday. It developed what was described as significant ‘list’, a technical term for a sideways tilt – towards the starboard side en route to Kochi. Apart from a Dornier aircraft, Coast Guard fast petrol vessel, Arnvesh, two merchant ships in the vicinity – MV Han Yi and MSC Silver 2 – participated in the rescue operation. INS Sujatha joined the operation on Sunday.
While the scale of leakage is being assessed, experts are of the view that its impact can cause serious damage to sensitive marine eco-systems. It could also disrupt fishing activities, affecting fishermen in coastal regions. Marine productivity, especially during the monsoon – a crucial period for pelagic fish breeding and growth – is also under serious threat.
MSC Elsa 3, 28 years of age, reportedly had on board 640 containers, triggering speculation about its being overweight and the vessel being un-portworthy. Some containers have been washed ashore. But the extent of damage must await a detailed inspection.
Preliminary reports say that there has been significant oil leak from the vessel. A statewide alert has been issued. Fishers have been advised against venturing into the sea. Fishing activities are strictly prohibited within a 20-nautical-mile radius of the sunken vessel. According to an official advisory, the leaking fuel was drifting at a speed of approximately 3kmph, posing serious environmental and navigational threats. A Dornier aircraft which sprays dispersant to break up the oil has been deployed. The Director-General of Coast Guard, who heads the National Oil Spill Disaster Contingency Plan, is directly overseeing the response efforts.
Removing oil spills from sea is difficult even under normal circumstances and in calm waters. But quick damage-control measures have been initiated. Indian Navy vessel INS Sujatha managed to rescue three crew members of MSC Elsa 3, who had remained aboard to assist in salvage operations. The Kochi-based Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute(CMFRI) will conduct field surveys, collect samples and track the spill’s movement.
Meanwhile, the Union Government is said to be working on a proposal to fix the lifespan of vessels operating in Indian waters. The Kerala oil spill underlines the need to enhance the inspection regime to ensure that vessels operating in Indian waters comply with maritime norms. The Director-General of Shipping has voiced fears about some old vessels operating in Indian waters. He also hinted at a proposal to fix the lifespan of vessels.
Experts say old vessels can have operational problems because of outdated technology, wear and tear, and corrosion. While it is mandatory for vessels to undergo dry docking every five years to ensure seaworthiness, improper maintenance can pose challenges. If maintained properly, the lifespan of a cargo ship may extend to 30 years. However, corrosion, wear and tear of mechanical parts and absence of modern navigational equipment raise questions about their fitness.
At present, the safety and environmental needs of ships are governed by the norms of International Maritime Organisation. Surprisingly, there are no international norms that decide the cut-off date for the operations of a ship. That decision is left to the owner of the ship! Also, the seaworthiness of a ship is determined not by its age but the certification. If the vessel is duly certified by the authorities concerned, it is considered good for operations.
The Shipping DG has also directed the vessel operator Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) to establish a damage and liability claims desk to provide compensation for the damages caused by the ship capsize. A nodal officer from DG Shipping will coordinate the process. (IPA Service)
