Kochi: The High Court has ordered the arrest of MSC Akita-2, a vessel belonging to MSC, in connection with the MSC Elsa-3 ship accident. The decision came while considering an admiralty suit filed by the state government, which is seeking ₹9,531 crore in compensation from the company.
The MSC Elsa-3 ship accident on May 25 caused significant damage to the Kerala coast and its fishing sector. The state government approached the High Court highlighting these concerns. An admiralty suit was filed against the Mediterranean Shipping Company for environmental and marine product losses. The court, acting on the petition, ordered the arrest of MSC’s Akita-2 vessel. The order was issued by a single bench headed by Justice Abdul Hakeem. The court also restrained the Akita-2 vessel from leaving Vizhinjam.
The ill-fated ship was carrying 643 containers with environmentally hazardous materials. This has adversely affected Kerala’s marine environment and led to a decrease in fish availability. A special expert committee appointed by the government had submitted recommendations regarding the compensation to the government. The petition will be heard again on Thursday.
