Kerala declares MSC ELSA-3 shipwreck as state-specific disaster

Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala government has officially declared the recent shipwreck of cargo vessel MSC ELSA-3 in the Arabian Sea as a state-specific disaster, citing the grave environmental, social, and economic threats it poses to the region.

The vessel capsized on May 25, 2025, approximately 14.6 nautical miles off the coast of Thottappalli in Alappuzha district. The incident has triggered widespread concern over the potential for oil spills and the drifting of hazardous cargo and debris onto Kerala's coastline.

The ship was reportedly carrying 640 containers, including 13 with hazardous cargo and 12 containing calcium carbide, alongside 84.44 metric tonnes of diesel and 367.1 metric tonnes of furnace oil, according to the Ministry of Defence.

Marine experts warn that the drifting containers could pose hazards to navigation, while leaking fuel and cargo residues could have long-term ecological effects on marine life and coastal habitats.

Authorities urged coastal communities to remain vigilant and report any suspicious materials or debris washing ashore.