Kochi, Sept. 26 -- The Kerala high court on Thursday delivered an interim order directing the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) to pay a security of Rs.1227.62 crore towards compensation for damage to the marine ecosystem and the corresponding economic losses suffered by the local fishing community on the coast of Kochi, pursuant to the sinking of the MSC ELSA 3 vessel carrying several pieces of cargo classified as "hazardous" on May 25 this year.

Justice MA Adbul Hakim delivered the ruling while hearing the admiralty suit filed by the Kerala government against MSC and its sister companies, demanding compensation of Rs.9531.11 crore under various heads.

In addition, the State had filed an Interlocutory Application (IA) seeking the co...