The Liberia-flagged container ship MSC ELSA 3 sank off the coast of Kochi, India, after suffering a severe list approximately 38 nautical miles southwest of the port. Fortunately, all 24 crew members were safely rescued, and environmental response efforts are currently underway.

The incident began during the vessel’s voyage from Vizhinjam Port on May 23, when it reported a 26-degree list en route to Kochi. In the initial rescue operation, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) successfully evacuated 21 crew members, while the captain, chief engineer, and second engineer stayed onboard to support the planned salvage efforts.

However, in the early hours of May 25, one of the ship’s cargo holds rapidly flooded, causing the vessel to capsize. The remaining three crew members were subsequently rescued by the Indian Navy’s INS Sujata, ensuring the safe evacuation of all 24 seafarers.

At the time of the incident, MSC ELSA 3 was carrying 640 containers, including 13 containing hazardous goods and 12 with calcium carbide. Additionally, the vessel had 84.44 metric tons of diesel and 367.1 metric tons of residual fuel oil in its tanks.

Environmental monitoring is actively being conducted, with Indian Coast Guard aircraft equipped with advanced oil spill mapping technology carrying out aerial surveillance. As of the latest update, no oil spill has been reported.

The Indian Coast Guard is closely coordinating with state authorities to mitigate potential environmental impacts and ensure maritime safety in the area.

Contact: ruby.nguyen@suntransco.com