Sanctioned Tanker Sinks Further Off Oman as Oil Spill Spreads
A sanctioned tanker carrying nearly 1 million barrels of crude oil appears to be sinking further after remaining grounded off Oman for several weeks, with satellite imagery showing a rapidly expanding oil spill near a protected marine area.
The 247-metre Caroline Bezengi has been grounded off Qibliyah Island on Oman’s southwest coast since June 8, when its crew reportedly reported an explosion on board. Satellite images reviewed by the Associated Press show the tanker sitting noticeably lower in the water than it did in late July, while crude oil has spread toward the island’s shores.
Oil Spill Expands to Cover Nearly 800 Square Kilometres
The oil sheen covered nearly 800 square kilometres (309 square miles) as of August 7, according to Wim Zwijnenburg, an environmental expert with Dutch organisation PAX. Greenpeace Germany also reported a sharp increase in the affected area, estimating that the spill grew from about 45 square kilometres on July 26 to roughly 600 square kilometres by August 4.
Environmental Concerns Mount as Spill Affects Protected Marine Area
The spill is affecting an area within the Arabian Sea reserve, a marine protected zone that supports endangered wildlife, including petrels and the rare Arabian Sea humpback whale. The region’s unique ecosystem is under threat due to the rapid spread of oil.
Authorities Monitor Situation, Prepare Response Teams
Oman’s government said on 6 August that it was monitoring the incident through satellite imagery, field surveys and technical modelling. Authorities said response teams were prepared to take measures to protect marine life and navigation safety. However, it remains unclear whether authorities have reached the tanker or whether salvage operations are under way to refloat the vessel or contain the leaking crude.
As reported, the region enters the peak monsoon season, further complicating efforts to mitigate the environmental impact of the spill. The situation will continue to be closely monitored as concerns about the long-term effects on the marine ecosystem and local wildlife grow.
Original Article: Sanctioned tanker sinks further off Oman as oil spill spreads — Safety4Sea