Kochi: The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is leading a critical rescue operation 38 nautical miles southwest of Kochi, where the Liberian-flagged container vessel MSC ELSA 3 developed a severe 26-degree list on May 24, 2025, at approximately 8:31 PM IST. The ship, which departed from Vizhinjam Port on May 23 en route to Kochi, issued a distress signal earlier today, triggering an immediate and coordinated response from the ICG.
The MSC ELSA 3, a container vessel operated by Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), was carrying cargo and had 24 crew members onboard at the time of the incident. The cause of the list, which has compromised the vessel’s stability, is yet to be determined, though initial reports suggest potential structural or cargo-related issues. The ICG deployed a fleet of rescue ships, including fast patrol vessels and aircraft, such as Dornier maritime surveillance planes, to the site to assist the stranded crew.
As of 11:16 PM IST, nine crew members have been safely evacuated from the vessel and are receiving medical evaluations at a nearby facility in Kochi. Efforts are ongoing to rescue the remaining 15 crew members, who are reported to be in stable condition but awaiting safe extraction. To facilitate the evacuation, ICG aircraft have airdropped additional life rafts to the vessel, ensuring sufficient resources for the crew amidst challenging sea conditions, including moderate swells and winds reported in the area.
The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), in collaboration with the ICG, has directed the Liberian ship’s managers to arrange urgent salvage assistance to stabilise the MSC ELSA 3 and prevent potential environmental or navigational hazards. The DGS has also initiated a preliminary investigation into the incident, coordinating with port authorities in Vizhinjam and Kochi to assess the vessel’s condition and cargo manifest. The ICG has established a command centre in Kochi to oversee the operation, with additional support from the Indian Navy on standby if required.
The rescue operation highlights the ICG’s expertise in maritime emergency response and its commitment to safeguarding lives at sea. Authorities have assured that all measures are being taken to ensure the safety of the remaining crew and to mitigate any risks posed by the vessel’s condition. Further updates are expected as the situation develops, with salvage operations likely to commence once all crew members are safely evacuated.
– global bihari bureau
