DUBAI: An oil spill spreading along Oman’s coast is threatening fragile marine ecosystems that support endangered Arabian Sea humpback whales, critically endangered hawksbill turtles and vulnerable seabirds, raising concerns over the long-term impact on some of the region’s most threatened wildlife.
Crude oil has been leaking from the tanker Caroline Bezengi — a sanctioned tanker believed to be part of Russia’s “shadow fleet” — that was carrying nearly 1 million barrels of oil when it reported an explosion in June.
According to satellite image analysis, the spill expanded to cover an area of 1,700 sq. km as of August 13. Oman’s Environment Authority confirmed that oil has reached the shore at Ras Madrakah, roughly 200 km north of the tanker’s location, affecting an estimated 40 km of coastline. Forecasts indicate oil may reach the southern coast of Masirah Island within hours.
Home to the Arabian Sea humpback whales, critically endangered hawksbill turtles and many types of seabirds, Ras Madrakrah is one of the most impacted areas in Oman.
All life forms within the perimeters of the spill are at risk of being critically affected, regional campaigns lead at Greenpeace MENA, Hanen Keskes, told Arab News.
