- A Liberian cargo ship sank off the Kerala coast. The ship carried 640 containers, including hazardous materials.
- There are fears of potential oil spills. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely.
- The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority warned the public about possible debris washing ashore.
A cargo vessel sank off the coast of Kochi, Kerala, on May 25, 2025, triggering serious environmental and public safety concerns due to the hazardous materials it was transporting.
Incident Overview
The vessel, which was en route from Vizhinjam to Kochi, capsized approximately 38 nautical miles southwest of Kochi after developing a severe list. All 24 crew members were safely rescued.
Hazardous Cargo and Environmental Risks
The ship was carrying 640 containers, including 13 that contained hazardous materials. Among these, 12 containers held calcium carbide—a chemical that reacts with water to produce acetylene gas, which is highly flammable and potentially explosive. The vessel also had approximately 84 metric tonnes of diesel and over 360 metric tonnes of furnace oil on board.
The potential release of these substances into the sea poses serious threats to marine life and the coastal environment. Authorities have initiated containment efforts and are monitoring the area for any signs of chemical or oil pollution.
In light of the incident, residents along the Kerala coast have been advised to avoid any floating debris or cargo that may reach the shore. These materials may be hazardous and should not be handled under any circumstances. The public is also urged to report any such sightings to emergency services.
Ongoing Response and Investigation
Efforts are continuing to assess the environmental impact and to recover any dangerous materials that may have leaked. Officials are also investigating the cause of the vessel’s sinking to help prevent similar incidents in the future.
This incident highlights the critical need for robust safety protocols in maritime shipping, especially when hazardous substances are involved. The response remains active, with environmental protection and public safety as top priorities.
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Source: Ground Report
