- Environmental Threat Looms as Salvage Delays Continue Off Kerala Coast.
- Government Warns of Criminal Action Over Oil Spill Inaction.
- Delayed Response Misses Weather Window, Increases Pollution Risk.
India’s Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has set a firm 48-hour deadline for starting oil extraction operations from a sunken container ship off the coast of Kerala. This vessel, which went down on May 24, 2025, poses a significant environmental threat due to its cargo and fuel. If action isn’t taken within this timeframe, those responsible could face criminal charges under Indian law, reports Marine Insight.
Environmental Risks and Delayed Action
The sunken ship is located approximately 14.6 nautical miles from Thottappally in Alappuzha district and was carrying 640 containers, 13 of which contained hazardous materials and 12 contained calcium carbide. Additionally, it had around 84.44 metric tonnes of diesel and 367.1 metric tonnes of furnace oil on board.
Despite numerous warnings and meetings, the operation to remove the oil has been severely delayed. Essential equipment like the Diving Support Vessel (DSV) and tugboats only arrived after the end of May, missing a crucial pre-monsoon weather window. Authorities have pointed fingers at the shipowner and salvors for negligence and failing to meet their legal obligations.
Legal Threats and Accountability
The Director General of Shipping has officially cautioned the involved parties that ongoing inaction could lead to prosecution under various Indian laws, including the Merchant Shipping Act (1958), the Environment (Protection) Act (1986), the Disaster Management Act (2005), and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (2023).
Officials have highlighted that necessary saturation diving hasn’t been carried out and that critical measures, like vent capping to stop further oil leaks, are still pending. There have also been delays in securing visas for international saturation divers, even with diplomatic support from the Indian government.
Impact on Coastal Communities
The coastal communities of Kerala have been hit hard since the incident. Those who rely on fishing are struggling economically due to pollution, debris floating around, and oil contamination. The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has called this a “serious and ongoing risk” to both the marine environment and the livelihoods of residents.
Continuing Containment and Recovery Efforts
On June 11, a small oil leak was detected from one of the fuel tanks. While divers have successfully sealed several leaking vents and pipes, there’s still a minor leak from a sounding pipe that’s active. Onshore operations have led to the recovery of 58 containers, with one more expected soon. Regular drone surveys are being carried out to find any submerged debris.
Extensive Cleanup of Plastic Nurdles
A major cleanup initiative is in progress to remove plastic nurdles, those tiny plastic pellets used in manufacturing, that have washed up on the shores of Thiruvananthapuram and Kanyakumari. Approximately 1,600 volunteers in Kanyakumari and 200 in Thiruvananthapuram are collecting around 2,500 kg of nurdles each day. Temporary storage facilities have been set up for the collected materials, awaiting approval from the Pollution Control Board (PCB).
Legal and Operational Escalation
A criminal case has been filed against the owner, captain, and crew of the vessel. In connection with a compensation claim, authorities temporarily held another ship from the same operator at Vizhinjam port, but it was released after a bond of $700,000 was posted.
The dive team at the site has now expanded to 24 members, and they are in the process of finalising equipment mobilisation. The Indian government has directed the salvage team to provide a complete and verified oil recovery plan within the next 24 hours.
Final Measures and Next Steps
Currently, secondary plugging is being carried out on the empty tanks. Divers are also gearing up to retrieve the ship’s Voyage Data Recorder (VDR), which could offer crucial insights into the sinking incident. Authorities are clear that any further delays will lead to legal repercussions.
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Source: Marine Insight
