A major environmental emergency is unfolding off the coast of Kerala. The sinking of the Liberian-flagged container ship MSC ELSA 3, just 38 nautical miles from Kochi, is raising serious concerns.

But how big is this disaster?

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The vessel was carrying 640 containers, 84 metric tons of diesel, and over 367 metric tons of furnace oil. Among the cargo: 13 containers of hazardous chemicals — including 12 containing calcium carbide, a compound that explodes on contact with water, releasing flammable acetylene gas.

If these containers rupture, they can not only cause fires and explosions but also disrupt marine ecosystems by altering water pH — threatening marine life and water quality.

The Indian Coast Guard is on high alert. Aircraft with oil spill detection systems are patrolling the area, and recovery teams are racing against time to prevent a major environmental spill.

People along the coast have been warned to not touch or approach any floating containers or materials that may wash ashore. Even a single damaged container—especially those carrying calcium carbide or other hazardous substances—could trigger fires, toxic gas release, or water contamination.

The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority has activated emergency protocols, while the Indian Coast Guard continues surveillance operations using aerial drones and pollution response vessels.

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Experts say the environmental risk extends beyond the immediate coastline. A spill of this magnitude could disrupt marine food chains, impact fisheries, and threaten coastal tourism, a vital part of Kerala’s economy.

With the monsoon season already here and rough seas complicating salvage work, time is running out to safely contain this disaster.