Kerala Takes Legal Action in Shipwreck Environmental Disaster

Kerala police filed charges against the MSC Elsa 3's owner, master, and crew for negligent handling, resulting in the ship sinking off the state's coast. The cargo, including hazardous materials, polluted the sea and affected fishing community livelihoods, causing significant financial loss.

The Kerala police have taken legal action against those responsible for the MSC Elsa 3, a Liberian-flagged vessel that met its fate near the state's coast last month. The ship's owner, master, and crew face charges of rash navigation and negligent handling.

The First Information Report (FIR), filed by Fort Kochi Coastal police station, includes allegations under various sections of the BNS, highlighting the negligent management of the ship, which carried explosive and dangerous materials, leading to its sinking on May 24 near Alappuzha district.

The incident has not only polluted the marine environment but has also severely impacted the livelihoods of the fishing community in the area, amounting to a loss of lakhs of rupees. A complaint by Alappuzha resident C Shamji prompted the legal proceedings.

(With inputs from agencies.)