Ecological Impact of MSC ELSA 3 Sinking
The sinking of the Liberian-flagged container vessel MSC ELSA 3 off the Kerala coast in May has led to significant ecological disruptions, as revealed by an investigation report from the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES).
Key Findings of the Investigation
- The leakage from the ship negatively impacted the south-eastern Arabian Sea’s water quality, plankton, benthos, fish eggs, larvae, and higher marine life.
- Marine experts emphasize the urgent need to seal the wreck’s fuel compartments to prevent further ecological damage.
- Long-term monitoring of the affected regions is necessary to protect marine ecosystems and fishery resources.
Details of the Incident
- MSC ELSA 3, a 28-year-old vessel, capsized 25 km southwest of Alappuzha on May 25.
- The ship was traveling from Vizhinjam port in Thiruvananthapuram to Kochi.
- The crew was rescued by the Coast Guard and the Indian Navy.
Research and Findings
- The Centre for Marine Living Resources and Ecology (CMLRE) conducted an investigation using the Fishery Oceanographic Research Vessel (FORV) Sagar Sampada from June 2-12, covering 23 sampling locations.
- Compounds such as naphthalene, fluorene, anthracene, phenanthrene, fluoranthene, and pyrene were detected.
- Higher concentrations of trace metals like nickel, lead, copper, and vanadium were found, indicating hydrocarbon and heavy-metal pollution.
Ecological Consequences
- Zooplankton exhibited high levels of petroleum-derived pollutants, leading to bio-accumulation concerns.
- Pollutant transfer through the food web to fish and humans is a significant concern.
- The incident affected fish breeding during the southwest monsoon, impacting early life stages of fish.
- Fauna, including a Brown Noddy seabird, showed behavioral responses indicative of oil contamination.