Oil Spill Off Singapore’s Coast under Control, Clean-up Efforts in Progress
Summary
An oil pipeline belonging to British giant Shell has leaked into the sea off the coast of Singapore, spilling oil into the waters. The spill was reported to have started early this morning on a pipeline running between two islands, Bukom and Bukom Kecil. However, the good news is that the leak has been stopped, and clean-up crews have been deployed to mitigate the damage.
Details of the Incident
According to the Singapore Maritime and Port Authority (MPA), the spill started early this morning on a pipeline running between the two islands. The leak was reported to have stopped at source, and containment booms have been placed off the site of the leak to prevent further spread.
Clean-up Efforts
To contain the spill, Shell has deployed craft equipped with dispersants to clean up the oil sighted in the vicinity of the leak. Additionally, the MPA has dispatched equipment and a team to help clear the fuel slick, and activated drones and satellite capabilities to monitor the spill. The authority has also issued navigational safety broadcasts to passing vessels, asking them to keep clear of the site.
Impact on Navigation Safety
As of now, there is no impact to navigation safety, and the MPA has assured that the spill is under control. However, the authority has taken measures to alert government agencies to report any oil sightings, and as of evening, there have been no new sightings.
Precedent: June’s Oil Spill
This is not the first oil spill to affect Singapore’s waters. In June, the country closed beaches on the resort island of Sentosa after an oil spill occurred when an accident at Pasir Panjang port between a dredger and a stationary bunker vessel released oil into the sea. Clean-up efforts have since been completed.
Conclusion
While the recent oil spill is a concerning incident, it is reassuring to know that the leak has been stopped, and clean-up efforts are underway. The MPA and Shell’s swift response have minimized the potential damage, and the spill is now under control.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When did the oil spill occur?
The oil spill occurred early this morning. - How much oil was spilled?
The exact amount of oil spilled is unknown. - Has the leak been stopped?
Yes, the leak has been stopped at source. - Is there an impact to navigation safety?
No, there is no impact to navigation safety at this time. - What is being done to clean up the spill?
Shell has deployed craft equipped with dispersants to clean up the oil, and the MPA has dispatched equipment and a team to help clear the fuel slick.