Kerala's Marine Emergency: The Capsizing of MSC ELSA III
The recent capsizing of the cargo vessel MSC ELSA III off the Kochi coast has triggered a state-wide emergency in Kerala, with significant actions being undertaken by both the state and the central government to prevent a potential marine pollution disaster.
Immediate Response and Measures
- The Indian Coast Guard has deployed three capital ships: ICG Samarth, ICG Saksham, and ICG Vikram as part of a multi-agency effort.
- A pollution response vessel, Sagar Prahari, has been dispatched from Mumbai to the site.
- Regular aerial surveillance is being conducted using Dornier aircraft equipped with the MSS 6000 system to monitor any potential oil spillage.
Government Actions and Coordination
- A detailed review has been conducted by the shipping minister, Sarbananda Sonowal, and senior officials to assess the situation.
- Efforts are focused on the salvage of marine fuel and securing hazardous materials from 13 IMDG containers.
- The state government has issued a coastal alert for districts along the Arabian Sea, advising fishermen to remain ashore.
Company and Crew Involvement
- Representatives of MSC have arrived in Kochi to coordinate with the Coast Guard and MMD offices.
- MSC is actively tracking and securing all containers, especially those that have beached.
- The vessel was carrying approximately 640 containers, including 13 with hazardous chemicals.
- All 24 crew members, including nationals from Russia, the Philippines, Ukraine, and Georgia, were successfully rescued.
Public Safety and Precautions
- The public has been warned to avoid oil slicks and containers that may wash ashore.
- Authorities advise maintaining a safe distance of 200 metres from any suspicious materials.
