Wakashio MV Updates - August 09, 2020

 Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth stated that the hydrocarbon leak stopped after 500 metric tons of heavy oil were pumped out of the Wakashio’s breached tank. Measures are being taken to secure the tank’s remaining 800 metric tons of oil. 525 metric tons have already been transferred to a more secure location.

Of the oil already spilled in the lagoons, 170 metric tons as well at 80 metric tons of waste sludge were skimmed as at Sunday afternoon.

The bulk carrier was transporting a total of 3,500 metric tons of heavy oil in all its tanks, of which 2,500 metric tons remain on board. Weather conditions deteriorated on Sunday interrupting pumping operations. It will only be possible to resume pumping when weather conditions improve, which is forecasted to be in the evening of Monday, 10 August.

According to the Salvage Master, the conditions of the ship are deteriorating with hull cracks extending and new cracks appearing. There is now a real risk of the ship breaking in two. Tugs have already been positioned to take a part of the ship to high seas, should the need arise.

As regards skimming of the spillage, 4 skimmers are currently in operation, 1 more is expected to arrive from Rodrigues tomorrow (Monday 10 August), 4 more from Reunion Island and 2 are expected from Greece.

The Prime Minister thanked all countries who are responding favorably to Mauritius’s calls for help. He also thanked the teams from government, from the private sector, NGOs as well as the local community for their committed actions. He insisted that the safety of people should be a topmost priority and urged that volunteers wear protective equipment before taking part in cleaning operations.