The coastal town of Kollam in Kerala is facing an unusual and potentially dangerous situation after several cargo containers from the sunken ship MSC Elsa 3 have washed ashore. The incident has put local authorities and residents on high alert, as concerns rise over possible chemical leaks and environmental damage.
What Happened?
On Saturday, the Liberian-flagged cargo vessel MSC Elsa 3, which was carrying over 640 containers, began tilting dangerously about 14.6 nautical miles (27 km) off the coast of Alappuzha. By Sunday morning, the ship had completely sunk, leaving many of its containers adrift in the sea. By Monday morning, at least eight of these containers had washed up along the Kollam coastline, with the first spotted around midnight at Cheriyazhikal in Karunagappally. More containers were later found at Parimanam beach in Chavara, Shakthikulangara, Madamma Thop, and Neendakara Altaramoodu.
Why Is This a Problem?
While initial checks suggest that the containers that have reached the shore so far are empty, authorities are not taking any chances. The ship was carrying 13 containers with hazardous chemicals, including 12 that contained calcium carbide—a substance that reacts with seawater to produce highly flammable acetylene gas. The ship also had a significant amount of fuel onboard: 84.44 metric tonnes of diesel and 367.1 metric tonnes of furnace oil. Both the chemicals and the fuel pose serious risks to the environment and public safety if they leak.
What Are the Risks?
-
Chemical Leaks: Calcium carbide can react with water to produce acetylene gas, which is not only flammable but also harmful if inhaled. If any of the containers with hazardous chemicals break open, it could lead to fires, explosions, or toxic fumes near the coast.
-
Oil Spills: The sunken ship’s fuel tanks could leak oil into the sea. Oil spills are harmful to marine life, birds, and the overall health of the coastal ecosystem. Oil can also wash ashore, polluting beaches and affecting tourism and fishing industries.
-
Floating Debris: More containers and ship debris may continue to wash ashore in the coming days. The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) estimates an 80% chance that these containers will reach the coasts of Alappuzha, Kollam, and Thiruvananthapuram within the next 96 hours.
How Are Authorities Responding?
Local authorities, including the police, disaster management teams, and customs officials, are on high alert. Teams led by the District Collector have inspected the sites where containers have washed ashore. Residents in vulnerable coastal areas have been advised to evacuate and move to safer locations as a precaution. The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) has warned the public not to approach or touch any containers or floating objects and to report sightings by dialing the emergency number 112.
The Indian Coast Guard and Navy are leading efforts to monitor the oil spill and contain its spread. Two Coast Guard ships and a Dornier aircraft have been deployed to help manage the situation. Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) have also been formed to deal with any hazardous substance leaks and to assist in emergency operations.
What Should People Do?
If you live near the coast in Kollam or nearby districts, follow these safety tips:
-
Stay away from any containers or debris on the beach.
-
Do not touch or try to open any containers.
-
Report any sightings to the authorities immediately by calling 112.
-
Follow evacuation orders if given by local officials.
Why Is This Incident Important for Kerala?
Kerala’s coastline is not only home to many people but also supports a rich marine ecosystem, fishing communities, and a thriving tourism industry. Any major chemical leak or oil spill could have long-lasting effects on the environment, economy, and the health of local residents. The incident highlights the risks associated with shipping hazardous materials and the importance of strong safety measures and emergency response plans.
While the immediate focus is on preventing harm to people and the environment, this incident also raises questions about how cargo ships are managed and what happens when accidents occur. On one hand, shipping is essential for trade and the movement of goods, but on the other, accidents like this show the potential dangers to coastal communities and nature.
It is important to remember that the authorities are doing their best to manage the situation and protect everyone’s safety. At the same time, this event serves as a reminder that both the shipping industry and government agencies need to work together to prevent such incidents in the future and to be prepared when they do happen.
Looking Ahead
As more containers and debris may continue to wash ashore in the coming days, the situation remains fluid. Authorities are closely monitoring the coastline and have urged everyone to remain alert and cautious. The coming days will be crucial in assessing the full impact of the sunken ship and its cargo on Kerala’s coast and its people.
In summary, the arrival of cargo containers from the sunken MSC Elsa 3 on Kollam’s beaches is a serious event that has put the entire region on alert. While the immediate danger is being managed, the incident serves as a wake-up call about the risks of maritime accidents and the need for vigilance, preparedness, and cooperation to protect our coasts and communities.
With inputs from agencies
Image Source: Multiple agencies
©️ Copyright 2025. All Rights Reserved. Powered by Vygr Media.
