Singapore: Oil spill clean-up drive attracts almost 1,400 volunteers, shares Minister Desmond Lee

Around 1,400 folks signed up as volunteers within the clean-up drive following the oil spill which struck Singapore shores on June 15. Hailing the volunteers, National Development Minister Desmond Lee shared the quantity in a Facebook put up on June 16.

“We are grateful for the overwhelming response. As of 12pm as we speak, almost 1,400 folks have signed as much as assist,” a part of Minister Lee’s put up learn.

“While we might not be capable of activate everybody who has signed up, because of the nature of the operations and for public security, we’ll preserve you up to date of the newest developments. We recognize everybody’s curiosity in caring for our parks and nature areas,” he added.

As per an official news release, the oil spill occurred after one of many oil cargo tanks was ruptured because of an allision. “Dredger VOX MAXIMA had reported a sudden loss in engine and steering management earlier than its allision with bunker vessel MARINE HONOUR on 14 June 2024,” the discharge acknowledged.

“The allision prompted a rupture of one of many MARINE HONOUR’s oil cargo tanks, and its contents of low-sulphur gasoline oil had been launched to the ocean,” it learn.

The joint launch stated MPA patrol craft had been instantly activated and deployed to spray dispersants on the spill. MPA’s oil spill response contractor was additionally activated, they usually mobilised an oil skimmer to cut back the affect of the spill.

Meanwhile, Lee had urged help from volunteers by sharing an internet kind on Facebook on June 15.

As per newest improvement, there are not any indicators of oil slick inside Sisters’ Islands Marine Park however oil sheen was noticed within the surrounding waters.

Several seashores closed

To facilitate clean-up efforts, the next seashores will probably be closed till additional discover:

a. Beaches at East Coast Park (from Area B to H).

b. Labrador Nature Reserve (Jetty and Rocky Shore).

c. Sentosa – Sentosa’s seashores stay open for public, however sea actions and swimming will not be allowed at Tanjong, Palawan and Siloso Beach.

d. Beaches at St John’s, Lazarus, and Kusu Islands.

The authorities has suggested guests to avoid these areas to facilitate the clean-up operations. All different areas at each East Coast Park and Labrador Nature Reserve, together with F&B, to stay open.