In a dramatic maritime rescue, the Indian Navy successfully retrieved all 24 crew members from a Liberian-flagged container vessel that sank off the southern coast of India near Kerala. The incident occurred as the MSC ELSA 3, a 184-meter freight ship, encountered distress while en route from the Vizhinjam port to Kochi on Saturday.
The ship issued a distress signal, prompting a swift response from the navy, which deployed aircraft to the area. Rescuers located the crew in two life rafts approximately 38 nautical miles southwest of Kochi, as the vessel was seen listing dangerously.
The Ministry of Defence confirmed the safe retrieval of the crew members, who hail from diverse countries including Georgia, Russia, Ukraine, and the Philippines. The rescue operation involved collaboration between the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and a navy patrol boat.
The MSC ELSA 3 was carrying a total of 640 containers, among which were 13 classified as hazardous. Notably, 12 of these contained calcium carbide, a chemical commonly utilized in the production of fertilizers and steel. However, specific details regarding the remaining hazardous cargo have not been disclosed.
In light of the sensitive marine ecosystem along the Kerala coast, the ICG has initiated comprehensive pollution response measures. The ship was reported to have approximately 370 tonnes of fuel and oil onboard; however, authorities have stated that there are currently no reports of an oil spill, thanks to the deployment of detection systems by the coast guard.
