General cargo vessel VSG GLORY ran aground at El Quseir on 22 November due to poor weather conditions and a technical malfunction, according to reports.
The vessel ran aground early in the morning at El Quseir while departing from Yemen. It was carrying 4000 tons of bran, 50 tons of solar panels, 70 tons of diesel, and had 21 passengers on board. Reportedly, the cargo vessel struck a coral reef as it lost control due to strong winds, high waves, and a technical issue.
As a result, the incident caused a crack in the hull, allowing seawater to enter the engine room and resulting in a minor pollution spill. Authorities are working around the clock to manage the pollution resulting from the incident.
As reported, the Hurghada Environmental Protection and Conservation Association (HEPCA) and the Marine Protected Areas (MPA) team collaborated to contain the oil spill, following an order from Egypt’s Minister for Environment, Yasmine Fouad. Efforts to contain the spill began on 23 November.
The spill was reportedly contained using 200 meters of rubber barriers and 100 meters of oil-absorbent booms. Minister Fouad also ensured the presence of police and health services to address any emergencies during the vessel’s refloating.
