Kochi shipwreck triggers oil spill emergency

Kochi

A major alert has been issued in Kerala after a ship carrying hazardous materials sank off the Kochi coast. The Liberian-flagged vessel MSC ELSA 3, loaded with 640 containers, including 13 with dangerous cargo, sank on Sunday morning. All 24 crew members were rescued safely.

The ship was carrying 84.44 tonnes of diesel, 367.1 tonnes of furnace oil, and other fuels. It also had 12 containers filled with calcium carbide, a chemical that reacts with water to release highly flammable acetylene gas. The leak poses serious environmental risks.

Officials say the leaked oil is drifting at around 3 km per hour toward the Kerala coast. The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has asked fishermen to avoid going to sea. People have also been warned not to touch any oil or containers that may wash ashore.

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is working to contain the oil spill and is coordinating with state authorities. Aerial and sea patrols are ongoing to monitor the situation.

Experts warn that calcium carbide is especially dangerous in seawater. Its reaction releases heat and gas, which could harm marine life. The increase in water alkalinity from calcium hydroxide may also affect fish and other organisms.

The ship had developed a heavy tilt on Saturday, around 38 nautical miles southwest of Kochi. A distress signal led to a rescue mission involving ships, aircraft, and nearby vessels. Three senior crew members stayed behind for salvage work but had to abandon the ship when it sank. They were later rescued by the Indian Navy.

Authorities have urged the public to report any signs of oil or containers on the coast to the police. Cleanup efforts are underway.