SAMSA confirmed that the grounded cargo ship, MV Ultra Galaxy, has sustained significant damage following the severe weather and high swells experienced over the weekend. The vessel has now broken up further, resulting in a release of oil onto the nearby beach.
The MV Ultra Galaxy, which ran aground on the West Coast on 9 July 2024, has been the focus of ongoing salvage operations. However, the stormy weather over the past few days has exacerbated the situation, causing the wreck to split further, break apart and turn over, with almost of the entire length of her hull now underwater.
…SAMSA said.
The aerial inspection conducted on 18 August 2024 and on Monday revealed oil in the surrounding waters, accompanied by a strong odour, indicating leaks. However the oil that has escaped is drifting within the predicted drift patterns and is washing up onto the immediate beaches, as predicted..
…SAMSA added.
As informed, it is still too soon to assess the amount of remaining oil that has leaked from the wreck. SAMSA is working closely with the salvage team and local authorities to address the environmental impact of this recent situation.
SAMSA said: “Additional pollution patrols will be conducted along the length of the adjoining beaches, to ensure that no oil is drifting outside of the predicted area. Weather conditions will continue to be monitored closely to determine the most efficient, most suitable and safest course of action.”
SAMSA will provide further updates as the situation develops.
…said SAMSA.
