A cargo ship that capsized off the Kerala coast has triggered fears of a chemical and environmental disaster. Containers from the MSC Elsa 3, some carrying calcium carbide—a highly reactive and flammable chemical—have washed up on beaches in Kollam and Alappuzha. An oil spill has also been reported from the wreck site.
As the state issues a high alert and bans fishing in a 20-nautical-mile radius, what are the real risks to coastal communities, marine life, and maritime safety?
Krishna Kumar G from The Hindu is joined by Dr. V. N Sanjeevan, T.M. Balakrishnan Nair, A. Biju Kumar, and V.J. Mathew for an in-depth discussion on the science, legal accountability, and environmental consequences of this unfolding crisis.
The panel will analyse Kerala’s preparedness, the impact of hazardous cargo, and what needs to happen next to contain the fallout.
Published – May 29, 2025 03:58 pm IST