Chief Minister M.K. Stalin Reviews Measures Following Plastic and Hazardous Debris Wash-Up on Tamil Nadu Coast after LO-3 Ship Accident

Following the LO-3 ship accident, which occurred on May 24, 2025, off the coast of Kerala, a significant amount of plastic particles, oil, and hazardous materials spilled into the sea. The debris has since started washing ashore along coastal areas of Kerala and southern Tamil Nadu, especially in Kanyakumari district. In response, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Mr. M.K. Stalin held a review meeting today (30.05.2025) at the Secretariat to assess the impact of the debris on public safety, marine life, fisheries, and coastal ecosystems.

During the meeting, officials confirmed the presence of plastic particles along Kanyakumari’s shores and discussed potential ecological and livelihood impacts. The Chief Minister inquired about the risks posed to fishermen, marine species, and the environment, and directed the Environment, Climate Change, and Forests Department to initiate appropriate preventive and remedial measures.

The Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) and other agencies have launched joint inspections to determine the nature of the spilled cargo and to assess whether toxic or dangerous materials are involved. The CM was informed that agencies such as the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), National Coastal Management Programme, National Institute of Oceanography, and Anna University are conducting scientific studies on the environmental impact.

Further, the Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairy, and Fisheries has been directed to investigate whether fish and marine animals have ingested plastic and to issue advisories against fishing in affected zones as a precaution.

Instructions have also been sent to the District Collectors of Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, and Ramanathapuram to initiate clean-up operations and disseminate public advisories via local media, urging communities to report any plastic debris or hazardous items found on beaches or in the sea.

The CM emphasized the need for continuous monitoring of currents and beaches to track the movement of plastic and other contaminants. He instructed officials to ensure inter-agency coordination between the Revenue, Disaster Management, Fire and Rescue Services, and Pollution Control Board for effective and safe removal of debris.

Additionally, the Chief Minister stressed the importance of short-term and long-term environmental impact studies, calling for expedited testing on how the incident may have affected fish and marine biodiversity.

As per current reports, no hazardous materials have washed ashore in Tamil Nadu. However, the public and fishermen have been urged to immediately report any suspicious objects to local authorities or the Coast Guard. The Tamil Nadu Coastal Zone Management Authority will continue its intensive monitoring to safeguard public health and livelihoods.

The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Thiru. N. Muruganandam, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary (Environment) Mrs. Supriya Sahu, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary (Revenue and Disaster Management) Mrs. P. Amudha, IAS, Secretary (Animal Husbandry, Dairy, and Fisheries) Dr. N. Subbaiyan, IAS, along with other senior government officials.

Issued by:
Director, Department of Information and Public Relations, Chennai-9