An oil spill caused by a dredger boat colliding with a cargo tanker has resulted in environmental concerns along Singapore's southern coastline, including the popular resort island of Sentosa. The incident occurred when the Netherlands-flagged dredger Vox Maxima struck the Singaporean fuel supply ship Marine Honor, causing damage to the cargo tank and subsequent oil leakage into the sea.
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore has reported that the oil leak has been contained, with efforts to treat the escaped oil using dispersants. However, due to tidal currents, the treated oil has reached various shorelines, including Sentosa, other southern islands, a nature reserve, and a public beach park.
Clean-up operations are currently underway, with sections of the affected beachfront being closed off to facilitate the process. While Sentosa's beach remains open to the public, sea activities and swimming have been prohibited as a precautionary measure.
Workers in orange suits have been observed conducting clean-up activities on the oil-stained shorelines, with the deployment of 18 crafts and the installation of container booms to contain the spill. Additional measures are planned to prevent further spread of oil and aid in the recovery of trapped oil from the affected areas.
Conservationists and biologists are closely monitoring the situation to assess the impact on marine and wildlife. Reports have surfaced of dead fish, otters, and kingfishers covered in oil slick, highlighting the detrimental effects of oil spills on vulnerable species that rely on the sea for survival.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the environmental risks associated with maritime activities and the importance of prompt and effective response measures to mitigate the impact on marine ecosystems.
