Liberian cargo ship wreckage: After 'state disaster' declaration, Kerala govt mulls claiming compensation

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The government, after declaring the ship accident in the Kochi offshore waters a state disaster, is heading for legal action to seek compensation. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in a press conference said they were moving with the plan taking into account the possible environmental, social and economic impact of the ship accident. The Revenue Secretary has issued an order declaring it a state disaster. With this, action can be taken as per the Disaster Management Act.

The compensation will be sought from the insurance company. The necessary evidence has been collected. An insurance agency called 'Protection and Indemnity' has set up a damage liability desk in Kochi. The claims will be filed correctly and promptly.

Captain Aneesh Joseph, in collaboration with the Director General of Shipping, will assist the state in this regard. Aneesh is experienced in assisting various states in similar compensation cases. He will be invited to Thiruvananthapuram this week and will be apprised of the plans. Preliminary discussions were held with the ship owners.

The Chief Minister said that the sunken MSC ELSA 3 ship was requested to be moved from the Kerala coast. However, the shipping company has informed the government that steps to recover the debris can be started only after the monsoon season.

Compensation Claim

The shipwreck has caused a significant environmental impact, resulting in job losses, reduced income in the fishing sector, and a decline in tourism, among other effects. The state will raise compensation claims based on this.

Funds can be used

1. If declared as a state disaster, disaster victims can get assistance from the State Disaster Relief Fund

2. Fishermen can spend this money on various things, including a free ration and livelihood support.

3. Even if other sectors are affected, the necessary financial assistance can be obtained from the fund

Fishermen in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha and Ernakulam districts, affected by the shipwreck, will be given Rs 1,000 as temporary relief and six kg of rice free of charge.