Ship accident: CM announces Rs 1000 and six kg rice for fishermen in four districts

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan stated that the sinking of the vessel MSC ELSA 3 off the Kochi coast has affected the livelihoods of fishermen and that temporary relief measures will be provided. In a press conference, he announced that affected fishing families in four districts — Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha, and Ernakulam — will receive Rs 1,000 in cash and 6 kilograms of rice as immediate assistance. He also instructed that fishermen should avoid fishing within 20 nautical miles of the wreckage site. The Chief Minister said the shipwreck has been declared a state disaster, and that the current situation was reviewed in consultation with the Director General of Shipping.

"Following news of the shipwreck, public warnings were issued to both local residents and fishermen. On May 25, the ship completely sank. It was carrying 643 containers, of which 73 were empty. Thirteen of them contained calcium carbide, and 46 carried hydrazine, a plastic-related chemical. Other containers held wood, fruits, and garments. Around 100 containers are believed to have fallen into the sea. On May 26, an emergency meeting was held to assess the situation, and officials engaged in discussions with international experts on the same day," the CM said.

"As of now, 54 containers have washed ashore along the coasts of Alappuzha, Kollam, and Thiruvananthapuram. In Thiruvananthapuram, small plastic pellets known as nurdles have accumulated on the beaches. The government has initiated cleanup operations, and drone surveys have been completed in these areas. Discussions have been held with the shipping company," he said.

The Chief Minister emphasised the need to evaluate environmental damage, loss of livelihoods, and impact on tourism. He also demanded that the sunken vessel be completely removed from Kerala’s coast.