June 18, 2025
In the wake of the MSC ELSA 3 container vessel sinking off the coast of Kochi on May 25, 2025, Greenpeace South Asia has issued a strong call for corporate accountability, environmental justice, and immediate action to protect marine life and coastal communities.
The Liberian-flagged ship was carrying hazardous materials, including calcium carbide, sulphur, diesel, and furnace oil, when it capsized in the Arabian Sea. While no major oil slick had reached the Kerala shoreline by early reports, containers have washed ashore and a visible oil slick was detected near the site. Cleanup operations by the Indian Coast Guard and Navy are ongoing, with a 20-nautical-mile fishing restriction in place. However, Greenpeace demands:
- Transparency: MSC must disclose the full cargo manifest.
- Independent oversight: A transparent and independently monitored cleanup plan must be made public.
- Compensation: MSC must take full financial responsibility and compensate local fishing communities affected by the spill.
Credit: Greenpeace
“Our people deserve truth, action, accountability, and justice,” Greenpeace stated, urging citizens to demand answers and hold MSC accountable. The environmental group warns that the continuing oil spill poses a severe threat to Kerala’s marine biodiversity and the livelihoods of thousands who depend on the sea.
