The Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), owner of the MSC ELSA 3 cargo ship that sank off Kerala on May 25, reported to the High Court that no significant environmental damage has occurred. Initially, a light oil sheen was noted around the wreck, but MSC claims this has dissipated, and all potential oil leak sources have been secured. The company assured that there is currently no risk of an oil spill affecting local fishermen or the environment, responding to petitions from former MP TN Pratzapan seeking compensation for those impacted.
In its affidavit, MSC confirmed that among the 643 containers aboard, all 13 believed to have sunk did not contain hazardous materials, with the remaining cargo primarily consisting of non-toxic plastic pellets. Over 70 tons of this material have already been collected from the surrounding area. However, removing the fuel from the ship’s tanks poses significant risks and cannot be attempted under current weather conditions.
Moreover, the wreck of the MSC ELSA 3 does not obstruct navigation or fishing activities, as it remains stable on the seabed at a depth of 54.5 meters. The High Court will consider the petitions related to the incident on Wednesday. The affidavit detailed the ship’s final hours, explaining that despite crew efforts, a critical list led to evacuation and ultimate sinking.
