Key facts
- Oman is intensifying efforts to contain an oil spill from the stranded vessel Caroline Bezengi.
- The spill covers an area of over 2,000 square kilometers near al-Qibliyyah Island.
- The vessel has been spilling oil since getting stranded after a suspected explosion on June 8.
- Difficult weather conditions, lack of ship power, and unsafe deck conditions are complicating response efforts.
- International experts from Ambrey and specialist firms like OSRL and BISCO are assisting in the response.
- The spill has affected a marine reserve in the Hallaniyat Islands archipelago, home to diverse marine life.
Oman is intensifying its efforts to contain a significant oil spill originating from the stranded vessel Caroline Bezengi, which has been leaking oil since June 8 near al-Qibliyyah Island in the Dhofar governorate. The spill now covers an area exceeding 2,000 square kilometers, prompting urgent environmental protection measures.
The response is being hampered by challenging weather conditions, including high winds and waves, as well as the vessel's own precarious state. The Caroline Bezengi is grounded on a rocky reef, listing at an angle, with parts of its deck slippery and unsafe due to oil and seawater. Furthermore, the ship lacks a reliable power source to operate essential rescue and salvage equipment.
Oman's Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology is coordinating with national authorities and international experts, including the British firm Ambrey, to manage the situation. Specialist companies like OSRL and BISCO have been engaged to support pollution response and cleaning operations. Pollution-control materials and equipment are being prepared for deployment as soon as conditions permit.
Despite efforts, the Khareef season's adverse weather is severely restricting marine work. The shallow, rocky waters surrounding the grounding site also pose risks to support vessels. Authorities are exploring alternative access methods, including air support, to move experts and equipment onto the ship. The immediate priority is to establish a safe working environment for technical teams.
The Oman Environment Authority has reported that the spill has affected approximately 390 square kilometers, impacting a marine reserve known for its diverse ecosystems, including coral reefs and turtle nesting areas. Environmental groups have warned of a potential environmental disaster, noting the tanker is believed to be carrying around one million barrels of crude oil and may be part of Russia's 'shadow fleet'.