The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has reported an oil spillage after dredger Vox Maxima experienced a sudden loss of engine and steering control and collided with bunker tanker Marine Honour.
The collision took place at Pasir Panjang Terminal in Singapore on 14 June. Investigations by MPA are ongoing. The master of the vessel and its crew are currently assisting in investigations.
The collision ruptured one of the Marine Honour’s oil cargo tanks, releasing low-sulphur fuel oil into the water.
MPA patrol vessels were promptly sent to spray dispersants on the leak. MPA’s oil spill response contractor was also called in, and they deployed an oil skimmer to help limit the leak’s damage.
READ: MPA extends support to US Coast Guard amid Baltimore bridge collapse
Booms were also installed around the vessels as a precaution in case of further leaks. Tidal currents have caused oil spill debris to settle along the southern shorelines of Sentosa, Labrador Nature Reserve, Southern Islands, Marina South Pier, and East Coast Park.
As of 16 June at 1:30 pm local time, MPA reported that there were no traces of an oil slick within Sisters’ Islands Marine Park, but an oil sheen was seen in the adjacent waters.
READ: Port of Antwerp-Bruges shuts docks due to oil spill
To help with clean-up operations, MPA revealed that the following beaches will be closed until further notice:
- Beaches at East Coast Park (from Area B to H)
- Labrador Nature Reserve (Jetty and Rocky Shore)
- Sentosa – Sentosa’s beaches remain open to the public, but sea activities and swimming are not allowed at Tanjong, Palawan and Siloso Beach
- Beaches at St John’s, Lazarus, and Kusu Islands
MPA noted that the public is advised to keep away from these areas to facilitate the clean-up operations. All other areas at both East Coast Park and Labrador Nature Reserve including F&B remain open.
