A team of about 125 people from local communities are ready to tackle an oil spill on the West Coast. This, after a grounded cargo ship broke apart yesterday, due to strong waves.
The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) said in a statement, at some stage, 6.8-meter swells struck the wreck every 15 seconds.
“The grounded Panama-flagged cargo ship, MV Ultra Galaxy, has broken into four sections overnight, leading to an oil spill. All attempts are being made to contain the spill within the immediate area and cleaning operations will continue.”
Earlier in in the week, salvors removed several lube oil drums and about eight (8) tons of marine gas oil from the fuel tanks of the wreck.
Yesterday SAMSA said it has also mobilized the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB) to respond to seabirds.
Meanwhile, members of the public on the West Coast, from Brand se Baai to St Helena Bay, are requested to look out for any debris that may wash up on the beach, such as cargo bags, steel hatch covers, and other flotsam.
SAMSA said any findings should be reported to SAMSA through the Maritime Rescue Coordinating Centre (MRCC) at 021 938 3300 or 012 938 3303.
The public is also advised not to attempt to salvage any debris themselves.
Picture: SAMSA