Cleanup operations are significantly ramping up along South Africa’s west coast following an oil spill caused by the breakup of a grounded cargo vessel. The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) reported on Tuesday that efforts to address the spill from the MV Ultra Galaxy are underway.
The Panama-flagged general cargo vessel, which was en route to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, ran aground on 9 July off the coast of the Western Cape Province. The vessel, measuring 125 metres in length, broke apart into four sections over the weekend amid stormy weather, leading to a substantial oil spill.
The oil spill has prompted the immediate activation of the country’s Oil Spill Contingency Plan. Initial cleanup efforts involved around 125 local community members, who have been working to remove the oil that has washed ashore, covering approximately one kilometre south of the wreck. The team is set to increase in size as operations continue throughout the week.
SAMSA has also undertaken continuous monitoring of the situation through aerial and surface surveys to assess the extent of the spill and its environmental impact. In addition, the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds and the Department of Environmental Affairs, Forestry, and Fisheries are on standby to address any potential impact on seabirds.
The public has been advised to report any debris, such as cargo bags or steel hatch covers, that may wash up on the beach. However, SAMSA cautions against attempting to salvage any debris personally to avoid potential harm to both people and the environment.
