Fisher federation in Kerala urges Vizhinjam port officials to disclose cargo details of sunken vessel
Kochi: The Kerala Swatantra Matsyathozhilali Federation has urged Vizhinjam port authorities to disclose the details of the containers loaded on the sunken ship, MSC ELSA 3, and the exact content in the cargo.
Federation president Jackson Pollayil said there were several reports on the cargo, which are causing unease among fishing communities and coastal inhabitants. The customs and port officials must provide a precise explanation and clarify whether adverse weather or technical issues led to the vessel's sinking, he said.
Any official oversights warrant thorough investigation, regardless of the cause, Pollayil said.
The federation expressed concern over the absence of comprehensive reports detailing goods handled at the port, despite authorities possessing the information. An expert assessment should evaluate the environmental consequences of potential leakages, including chemicals like Calcium Carbide and fuel from the vessel, he said.
"The port authority and customs officials at Vizhinjam Port possess knowledge about the precise contents within these containers. Hence, the Vizhinjam International Port managing director must address public apprehensions," Pollayil said. He said compensation should be given to affected fishers following the sinking and called upon the ministry of shipping to install buoys marking the wreckage site to prevent fishing-related accidents.
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