Expressing deep concern at the spree of recent ship accidents that are occurring along the Kerala coast, the latest being the sinking of a container ship off Alappuzha and the raging fire on board another one off Beypore, the State committee of the Kerala Latin Catholic Association (KLCA) has demanded prompt registration of criminal cases and payment of adequate compensation to fishers and other coastal residents who are affected by these accidents.
These two aspects are crucial since the two accidents have resulted in widespread loss of livelihood options for fishers and innumerable others. In addition, there is also the looming threat of pollution to the marine ecosystem, following the sinking and fire incidents. In this situation, the State and Central governments must release scientific data regarding the extent of pollution due to the two incidents, especially along the Kerala coast. As part of this, a marine casualty investigation must be conducted to assess the extent of pollution and its environmental impact, Sherry J. Thomas, president of KLCA, and Biju Josey, its general secretary, demanded.
