The Indian Coast Guard has launched a full-scale pollution response operation after the sinking of the Liberian container vessel MV MSC ELSA 3 off the Kerala coast on May 25, 2025. Surveillance aircraft detected an oil slick at the site, prompting immediate deployment of ICG Ship Saksham in pollution response configuration. An ICG Dornier aircraft conducted aerial assessments and dispersed Oil Spill Dispersant (OSD) across the affected zone.
The oil slick, drifting east-southeast at a speed of 1.5 to 2 knots, posed a significant environmental threat, exacerbated by rough sea conditions and strong winds. Floating cargo containers, some breaking apart, further complicated response efforts. To ensure maritime safety, passing ships have been diverted, and mariners have been warned about navigation hazards from floating debris.
ICG intensified surveillance and spill mitigation efforts through aerial sorties and specialized dispersal equipment. Two Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) remain on-site, ensuring round-the-clock monitoring, while pollution response vessel Samudra Prahari and additional OPVs have been mobilized with large quantities of OSD to contain the spill.
The Mercantile Marine Department in Kochi issued a pollution liability warning to vessel owners M/s MSC under the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958. In response, MSC has appointed T&T Salvage for container recovery, oil removal, and environmental clean-up.
The ICG has advised Kerala state authorities to prepare for shoreline clean-up operations, cautioning local communities against handling cargo or debris that may wash ashore.
The operation underscores India’s commitment to maritime environmental protection and the Indian Coast Guard’s rapid response capabilities in safeguarding coastal ecosystems and marine navigation.
