Singaporean authorities are currently investigating an incident that led to an oil spill along the city-island’s southern shores. The incident occurred when the Netherlands-flagged dredger Vox Maxima collided with the Singaporean fuel supply ship Marine Honor after experiencing a sudden loss of control.
The collision resulted in a rupture in one of the cargo tanks on the Marine Honor, causing low-sulfur oil to leak into the sea. Despite efforts to contain the leak, the spilled oil was carried by tides along the shoreline, reaching popular areas such as the resort island of Sentosa. As a result, parts of the beaches have been closed off for cleanup operations, which involve more than 250 workers.
While Sentosa beaches remain open to the public, sea activities and swimming have been prohibited as a precautionary measure. Oil Spill Response Limited, an industry-funded cooperative, has been called in to deploy floating containment and recovery devices to corral the oil on the water surface. Skimmer craft will then lift the oil into storage tanks for proper disposal.
In addition to the cleanup efforts, the National Parks Board has deployed oil-absorbing booms to protect mangroves in unaffected areas. Volunteers from the public have also joined in the efforts by patrolling the parks for any signs of oil slicks. Conservationists and biologists are closely monitoring the impact of the oil spill on marine and wildlife in the affected areas.
The Singaporean authorities have stated that the master and crew members of the Vox Maxima are cooperating with the ongoing investigations into the incident. Measures are being taken to prevent further spread of the oil onto the shore, including the setting up of containment booms and temporary barriers.
The full extent of the damage caused by the oil spill is still being assessed, with reports of wildlife being affected. Photos circulating in local newspapers and social media show a small dead fish and a kingfisher covered in oil, highlighting the impact of such incidents on the environment. The authorities are working diligently to address the situation and minimize the environmental impact of the oil spill on Singapore’s shores.