Singapore is currently working to clean up a significant oil spill along its southern coastline, following a recent shipping accident. The incident occurred when a Dutch-flagged dredging boat collided with a Singaporean fuel ship that was anchored in the shipping straits nearby.
The dredger experienced a loss of engine power, causing it to drift into the Singaporean vessel and puncture its oil tank. Approximately 400 tonnes of oil, about half of the tank’s contents, spilled into the sea, leading to extensive contamination along the coastline.
According to a joint statement from Singapore’s maritime and environment agencies, the collision resulted in the rupture of one of the Marine Honour’s oil cargo tanks, releasing low-sulphur fuel oil into the water.
As a result of the spill, beaches, including those on the popular resort island of Sentosa, have been affected. Visitors have reported dark and oily water, accompanied by a lingering smell, three days after the incident. Swimming and other sea activities are currently prohibited in Sentosa, and several beaches across the country remain closed until further notice.
While concerns for wildlife have been raised, initial biodiversity surveys have not reported major damage. Dr. Karenne Tun from the National Parks Board stated that although oil was found on some mangrove plants’ roots, there has been no significant impact on marine biodiversity thus far, as reported by the Straits Times.
However, volunteers involved in the cleanup efforts caution that it may still be too early to assess the full extent of the spill’s impact. Kua Kay Yaw emphasized the need for continued monitoring, acknowledging that while no distressed wildlife was observed initially, the true consequences of the oil spill may only become apparent over time.