Chemical Leak Fear After Containers Wash Ashore in Kollam

A usual calm morning in Kollam turned into a scene of confusion and fear on Tuesday when a few rusted cargo containers showed up on the coast — some half-buried in the sand, others leaking a sharp-smelling liquid.

Local residents from the Thangassery beach area said they first noticed a weird stench around sunrise. “It was like burning plastic mixed with some chemical. We couldn’t breathe properly,” said Biju, a fisherman who lives nearby.

Soon, people started gathering, taking photos and videos — some even afraid to go near the water. A few kids complained of irritation in their eyes and throat. By 10 AM, the Pollution Control Board and Disaster Management teams arrived, sealed off the stretch, and started collecting samples.

“There seems to be leakage from one of the containers. We’ve sent the samples to the lab. Only after that can we confirm if it’s hazardous,” one officer said.

Photo of cargo containers washed up on Kollam beach with foam in water

The origin of the containers is still unclear, but locals suspect they could be from a capsized or damaged vessel. Authorities haven’t named the ship yet.

Meanwhile, fishermen have stopped work in fear of contamination. “We don’t want to take a chance. What if this affects the fish? Who will be responsible?” asked Ramesan, who has been in the trade for 18 years.

As of now, the beach remains closed, and residents are hoping for clear answers soon.