BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 17. Oman has stepped up efforts to contain and reduce the potential environmental impact of an oil spill from the stranded vessel Caroline Bezengi, according to the country’s Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology.
The vessel has been leaking oil since it became stranded near al-Qibliyyah Island off Oman’s Dhofar governorate following a suspected explosion on June 8.
Authorities said containing the spill has been complicated by technical and safety challenges. The ship does not have a reliable power supply needed to operate equipment required for rescue and containment operations.
The ministry also said some areas on the vessel’s decks had become “slippery and unsafe” after prolonged exposure to oil and seawater, creating additional risks for personnel involved in the response.
Oman has been working to limit the spread of the spill and prevent further environmental damage along its coastal waters.
Last week, Omani authorities said the oil contamination had spread across an area exceeding 2,000 square kilometres (770 square miles), according to an assessment by the country’s environmental agency.
The incident has raised concerns over potential damage to marine ecosystems and coastal areas in Dhofar, with authorities continuing efforts to assess the situation and contain the pollution.
