The Indian Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) reports that fuel extraction from the wreck of the MSC ELSA 3, located 14.6 nautical miles off Kerala’s Alappuzha coast, has reached a critical phase. Operations began on August 20 at a depth of approximately 51 meters. Specialized divers aboard the Southern Nova Diving Support Vessel are using advanced technology to recover residual fuel, despite challenging underwater conditions. Additional vessels are in place to enhance security, including the Offshore Monarch and Tugboat Canara MEGH, which restrict fishing activities around the site.
The salvage plan, developed by SMIT and approved by the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) and its insurer, anticipates completion by September 25, 2025, though weather conditions may affect this timeline. The MSC ELSA 3 was transporting roughly 450 tons of fuel, including diesel and very low sulfur oil (VLSFO). While some smaller oil traces were observed, they have naturally dissipated under sea conditions. Environmental monitoring continues in cooperation with the Indian Coast Guard.
In addition to the fuel recovery efforts, debris from the wreck has been washed ashore, affecting both Kerala and as far as Sri Lanka. The incident has also led to significant plastic pollution, prompting the mobilization of over 500 volunteers in Kerala who have collected approximately 655 tons of plastic for proper disposal. Kerala authorities have filed a 1 billion USD claim against MSC, detaining several MSC containers as security measures.
