Thu Jun 12 14:07:51 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the provided text:
**Kerala High Court Demands Ship Owners Pay for Accidents, Rejecting Public Burden**
KOCHI, India – June 12, 2025 – The Kerala High Court has ruled that the owner companies of two container ships involved in recent accidents off the Kerala coast must bear all expenses related to the incidents, including compensation and pollution mitigation. The court emphasized that the public exchequer should not be burdened with these costs.
The ruling comes in response to a public interest litigation filed by former MP T.N. Pratapan, seeking compensation for fishermen and others impacted by the sinking of the MSC Elsa 3 near Alappuzha on May 25th, and the ongoing fire aboard the Wan Hai 503 near Beypore, which began Monday and resulted in the loss of numerous containers, some carrying hazardous materials.
The court stated that both the Central and State governments can initiate measures to ensure the ship owners are held responsible. They cautioned against any further delays, warning that it would set a negative precedent. Mr. Pratapan’s counsel highlighted the urgency of salvaging the containers, particularly with the approaching monsoon season.
While the government’s counsel assured the court that damage assessments were underway and that the Centre has powers under the Merchant Shipping Act, the High Court stressed that coastal states also possess broad authority, with District Collectors empowered to take action. An amicus curiae will be appointed to assist the court in the proceedings.
First Piper 