Containers from Sunken Liberian Cargo Ship Wash Ashore in Kerala; State on High Alert for Oil Spill

Containers from the Liberian cargo ship that sank off Kerala’s coast on Sunday have started washing up onshore. Following the incident, the Kerala government declared an emergency, citing the risk of oil spills and chemical leakage.

The Indian Coast Guard and Navy are on high alert, while the public has been advised not to approach the coastline or touch any foreign objects as authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.

Kerala Issues High Alert Over Hazardous Cargo

After the vessel capsized, Kerala issued a high alert when it was confirmed that the ship was transporting hazardous materials. The state remains vigilant due to the potential risk of an oil spill.

All 24 Crew Members Rescued

The 24-member crew, which included one Russian, 20 Filipinos, two Ukrainians, and one Georgian, was rescued on Saturday after the ship tilted dangerously.

Officials confirmed that the MSC ELSA 3 had developed a “26-degree starboard list,” which refers to a sharp tilt to the right side in marine terms.

Indian Coast Guard’s Response

The Indian Coast Guard stated, “ICG aircraft equipped with advanced oil spill detection systems are conducting aerial surveillance, and ICG ship Saksham carrying pollution response equipment remains deployed at the site.”

Cargo Included Hazardous Material and Fuel

According to officials, the ship carried 84.44 metric tonnes of diesel and 367.1 metric tonnes of furnace oil. It also had containers of hazardous cargo and calcium carbide, a chemical that reacts dangerously with seawater and could cause an ecological crisis if leaked.

Containers Spotted Along the Kollam Coast

PTI reported that local police have spotted containers from the vessel along the Kollam coast.

While the exact number remains unknown, at least four containers have been confirmed ashore. The vessel, carrying a total of 640 containers — including 13 with hazardous substances — sank near the Kochi coast on Sunday.

No Oil Spill Detected Yet

The Ministry of Defence announced that no oil spill had been reported so far. The Indian Coast Guard had initiated full pollution response measures and is jointly monitoring the area with the Indian Navy.

The Ministry stated, “Liberian container vessel MSC ELSA 3 (IMO NO. 9123221) sank off the Kochi coast at around 0750 hrs today on May 25, 2025, due to flooding.”

It added, “The vessel went down with 640 containers, including 13 with hazardous cargo and 12 containing calcium carbide. It was also loaded with 84.44 MT of diesel and 367.1 MT of furnace oil.”

Timely Rescue Operation

Twenty-one crew members were rescued by the Indian Coast Guard on Saturday, while three others were saved by INS Sujata. The coordinated response was launched after a distress call reported the ship had developed a severe tilt.

Officials noted that the sensitive marine ecosystem along Kerala’s coast prompted the Coast Guard to activate “full pollution response preparedness.”

Aircraft equipped with oil spill detection systems are conducting aerial surveillance, and the ship Saksham remains on site for pollution control.

Public Advised to Avoid Containers and Oil Residue

The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has warned the public not to touch any washed-up containers or oil. People have been advised to immediately report any sightings to the police.

The Coast Guard has confirmed the ship was carrying Marine Gas Oil (MGO) and Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO).

Chronology of the Incident

The emergency began on May 24, when MSC ELSA 3, sailing from Vizhinjam to Kochi, developed a 26-degree tilt nearly 38 nautical miles southwest of Kochi.

The Coast Guard’s Maritime Rescue Sub-Centre (MRSC) in Kochi responded swiftly to the distress signal.

An ICG Dornier aircraft located life rafts, and ships including MV Han Yi and MSC Silver 2 were diverted to assist.

By Saturday evening, 21 crew members were rescued, while three senior officers remained onboard to assist in salvage efforts. However, as the vessel’s condition worsened overnight, the remaining crew had to abandon ship and were rescued by INS Sujata.

Coast Guard Continues Monitoring

The Coast Guard shared updates and images of the rescue operation on X.

Recognizing the ecological sensitivity and tourist importance of Kerala’s coast, the ICG emphasized its commitment to pollution response and coordination with the state government.

“ICG aircraft with advanced oil spill mapping technology are undertaking an assessment of the situation. Presently, no oil spill has been reported,” said an official statement.

A Defence PRO added that another vessel from the ship’s parent company had reached the site to assist. Coast Guard and Navy ships remain in the area to maintain vigilance and assess the aftermath of the incident.