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3w ago

Kerala Battles Oil Spill Threat as Sunken Ship's Cargo Washes Ashore

The Liberian-flagged MSC ELSA3 sank off Kerala's coast, releasing hazardous cargo and fuel, prompting an environmental emergency and public safety warnings.

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A Liberian-flagged container ship with hazardous cargo has sunk off India's southern coast of Kerala, the navy said on May 25, after rescuing all 24 crew members safely.
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Overview

  • The container vessel MSC ELSA3, carrying 640 containers including hazardous materials, sank on May 25, 2025, off the Kerala coast after developing a severe list.
  • All 24 crew members were rescued by the Indian Coast Guard and Navy in a coordinated operation before the vessel capsized.
  • The ship was transporting 84.44 metric tonnes of diesel, 367.1 metric tonnes of furnace oil, and 12 containers of calcium carbide, which reacts dangerously with seawater.
  • The Kerala government declared a statewide emergency as oil and containers began washing ashore, warning the public to avoid contact with any debris.
  • The Indian Coast Guard and Navy are actively working to contain the oil spill using ships and aircraft, while fishing activities within a 20-nautical-mile radius remain banned.