The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has issued a stern 48-hour ultimatum to the salvage operators of the sunken container vessel MV Elsa 3 off the coast of Kochi, demanding immediate commencement of oil extraction operations. The DGS cited gross negligence in salvage efforts and an imminent threat to the marine environment and coastline, particularly affecting Kerala’s coastal region.
The MV Elsa 3, a Liberian-flagged container vessel, capsized on May 25 while en route from Colombo to Kochi. Despite initial assessments indicating no immediate oil leak, the vessel’s fuel tanks remain a significant environmental hazard. The DGS noted that the progress made in the salvage operation is grossly inadequate and continues to fall short of the timelines and operational commitments previously provided by the owners and salvors. The notice further stated that should the extraction of oil not commence within the next 48 hours, the government would be compelled to examine all avenues against the ship owners and salvors under applicable Indian legislation for the continuing threat posed to Indian waters and the coastal environment.
The DGS emphasized that any further delay beyond the specified period would be treated as willful and deliberate noncompliance, prompting the government to exercise its full legal rights and remedies without further reference. Local communities, heavily reliant on fishing for their livelihoods, have already suffered extensive loss of work and income due to the prolonged presence of the sunken vessel, floating debris, oil sheen, and ongoing pollution risks. The DGS highlighted that despite repeated instructions and coordination meetings, the response from salvors has been consistently delayed and insufficient, resulting in a continued and serious risk to the marine environment and coastline.
The vessel, lying at a depth of 51 meters, requires saturation diving for oil recovery. However, only limited air diving has been conducted so far, deemed insufficient for the safe and complete extraction of oil trapped in the tanks. The capping of vents, initially scheduled for completion earlier this month, is still underway. The extraction of oil, originally scheduled to commence around June 5, has not yet begun. The DGS has placed the owners and salvors on formal notice, warning that any further delay beyond the specified period will be treated as willful and deliberate noncompliance, and the government shall proceed to exercise its full legal rights and remedies without further reference.
The situation underscores the urgent need for effective and timely salvage operations to prevent further environmental degradation and economic losses for local communities. The DGS’s intervention highlights the government’s commitment to safeguarding India’s marine environment and ensuring accountability in maritime operations. As the deadline approaches, all eyes are on the salvage operators to take immediate action and commence oil extraction to mitigate the environmental risks posed by the sunken vessel. The government’s firm stance serves as a reminder of the critical importance of timely and responsible maritime operations to protect the coastal ecosystems and the livelihoods of communities dependent on them.
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