Salvage Operations Intensify as Oil Spill Threatens South African Coastline

Efforts are being ramped up to contain an oil spill off South Africa's west coast after the ship Ultra Galaxy ran aground and began breaking apart. Despite no reported wildlife impact yet, concerns remain high for local species, including endangered African penguins and various water birds.

Efforts are intensifying to contain an oil spill from the Panama-flagged cargo vessel Ultra Galaxy, which ran aground and began breaking apart amid stormy weather on South Africa's west coast. As of Monday, authorities reported no signs of affected wildlife.

The Ultra Galaxy has faced rough sea swells since it drifted onto a sand bank near Doring Bay, approximately 300 km north of Cape Town. The ship's crew abandoned the vessel around three weeks ago when it started taking on water. Tebogo Ramatjie, a spokesperson for the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA), stated that salvage operations are ongoing and additional equipment is being mobilized to control the oil spill.

The spill occurred over the weekend when the ship broke into four sections, with waves reaching nearly seven meters in height. The salvage team has successfully removed several barrels of lube oil and about eight tons of marine gas oil. However, approximately 500 tons of fuel still needs to be extracted from the wreck. Monica Stassen from seabird conservation group SANCCOB reported no sightings of oiled wildlife yet but warned that the spill could affect endangered African penguins and other species along their migration corridor.

Pollution also poses a threat to the Olifants River estuary, a significant habitat for flamingoes, herons, and other water birds. SAMSA initiated an oil spill contingency plan with about 125 local community members assisting in the clean-up. U.S.-based Resolve Marine has been replaced by SMIT International to handle the salvage operation.

(With inputs from agencies.)