MUSCAT : The Environment Authority said on Wednesday that monitoring carried out on August 12 showed oil pollution affecting some beaches in the Ras Madrakah area, as authorities continue to track the consequences of a vessel grounding near Al Qibliya Island in the Hallaniyat Islands archipelago of Dhofar Governorate.
According to the Authority, a coastal stretch of up to 40 kilometres in Ras Madrakah could be affected by the spill. Current modelling also indicates that oil could reach the southern beaches of Masirah Island within the next few hours, potentially affecting a stretch of between 10 and 20 kilometres.
Specialised teams are carrying out monitoring, surveying and environmental response operations in coordination with the relevant authorities. Satellite imagery, technical monitoring systems and numerical models are being used to track the movement of the oil slick and forecast areas that could be affected.
Read More
- TAS Exclusive: 100 companies join Oman’s e-invoicing pilot ahead of 2027 mandate
- Oman’s South Al Batinah records 354 green inns, guest houses and heritage tourism facilities
- Vehicle theft ring busted in Oman, suspect arrested for repeated offense
- Oman’s Education Ministry opens registration for literacy and adult education programmes
- Muscat Municipality urges residents to avoid placing ads on walls and public facilities
The response is prioritising environmentally sensitive areas, with teams taking measures aimed at containing the pollution and reducing its impact on coastal and marine ecosystems.
The spill originated from the tanker Caroline Bezengi, which ran aground in Omani territorial waters off the Hallaniyat Islands around two weeks ago, approximately 22 nautical miles off the Omani coast.
According to the International Maritime Organization, the tanker was carrying about 800,000 barrels of oil and was travelling to Asia when it ran aground. The IMO said oil had been leaking from the vessel and drifting off the northeastern coast of Al Qibliya Island.
Monsoon winds have complicated access to the grounded tanker and delayed salvage operations, while contingency plans have been put in place as authorities continue to closely monitor the situation.
Environmental reports have indicated that the resulting oil slick has spread across an area of nearly 400 square kilometres.
The Environment Authority urged fishermen, coastal visitors and members of the public not to approach or handle any suspected oil, contaminated material or pollutants found along the coastline. Any such sightings should be immediately reported to the competent authorities.
The Authority said it will continue to monitor developments, mitigate environmental risks, protect the marine environment and support navigational safety, with further updates to be issued through official channels.
For all the latest news from Oman and GCC, follow us on Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn, like us on Facebook and subscribe to our YouTube page, which is updated daily.
