Swiss Cargo Ship MSC ELSA 3 Sinks Off India's Kerala Coast; All Crew Rescued

A Liberian-flagged Swiss container ship, MSC ELSA 3, sank early Sunday morning about 38 nautical miles southwest of Kochi, Kerala India. The vessel was carrying 640 containers, including 13 with hazardous materials and 12 containing calcium carbide, a chemical that can be dangerous if it comes into contact with water.

The ship developed a severe tilt on Saturday afternoon and eventually capsized due to flooding in one of its holds. The Indian authorities launched a swift rescue operation. All 24 crew members, from countries including Russia, Ukraine, Georgia, and the Philippines, were safely rescued—24 military personnel involved.

The ship was also carrying 84.44 metric tonnes of diesel and 367.1 metric tonnes of furnace oil, raising concerns about potential marine pollution in the ecologically sensitive Kerala coast. The Indian Coast Guard has activated full pollution response measures. Its ship Saksham, equipped with pollution control equipment, remains on site to monitor the situation. Aerial surveillance by Coast Guard aircraft with oil spill detection technology is ongoing. So far, no oil spill has been reported.

Authorities warn the public not to approach or handle any containers that may wash ashore, as some cargo could be hazardous. The sinking vessel’s containers are drifting slowly toward the Kerala coast, expected to reach areas between Alappuzha and Ernakulam within two days.

The cause of the ship’s sudden listing is still under investigation. Efforts to tow the vessel to port were unsuccessful due to rough seas and strong winds.

This incident highlights the risks posed by maritime accidents near important coastal ecosystems and the need for vigilant monitoring and quick response to protect the environment.

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