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Singapore Battles Oil Spill Affecting Popular Resort and Marine Reserve

Singapore Battles Oil Spill Affecting Popular Resort and Marine Reserve

June 17, 2024

A race is underway to clean up an oil spill that has spread beyond Singapore's luxurious Sentosa resort island, impacting a nearby marine reserve and other areas. Authorities are intensifying efforts to contain the spill and mitigate environmental damage.

Cause and Containment

The incident began on Friday afternoon when a dredger under Dutch flag, Vox Maxima, collided with the Singaporean bunker vessel, Marine Honor, near the busy Pasir Panjang Terminal. The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) reports the oil leak has been contained and treated with dispersants. However, tidal currents have carried some of the treated oil further ashore.

Singapore Battles Oil Spill Affecting Popular Resort and Marine Reserve

Impact on Tourism and Environment

The spill comes at a critical time, coinciding with the Hari Raya Haji long weekend, a period of high tourist and resident traffic to Sentosa's beaches. While the full extent of environmental damage is still being assessed, conservation groups report wildlife sightings of oil-coated birds, otters, and monitor lizards.

Singapore Battles Oil Spill Affecting Popular Resort and Marine Reserve

Cleanup Efforts

Over 100 personnel are deployed for beach cleaning across Sentosa, with swimming and water activities restricted on specific beaches. Authorities have also closed off nearby islands impacted by the spill and deployed skimmer vessels with absorbent booms to protect sensitive coastal ecosystems.

Singapore Battles Oil Spill Affecting Popular Resort and Marine Reserve

Strategic Importance and Environmental Concerns

Located on a vital shipping lane connecting the Indian Ocean with the South China Sea, Singapore is a major global hub for fuel bunkering. Environmental groups like Greenpeace are calling the incident a "wake-up call" for transitioning away from fossil fuels, highlighting the potential for long-term harm to marine ecosystems and fisheries.