Efforts Escalate to Clean South Africa oil Spill after Shipwreck.

Efforts to remove oil from the grounded MV Ultra Galaxy Cargo ship off South Africa’s west coast are being intensified by authorities after the wreck suffered further damage due to severe weather conditions. The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) is mobilizing over 200 personnel to expedite the oil removal process following recent storms that caused the ship to release more oil. The vessel, which has been stranded since July 9, was en route from Spain to Tanzania when it began to list heavily, prompting the 18 crew members to abandon ship and be rescued.

SAMSA has confirmed that the Ultra Galaxy, a 124.56-meter-long vessel built in 2008, sustained significant damage from the recent severe weather, with oil leaking into the surrounding waters. The salvage team, working in collaboration with local authorities, is focusing on minimizing the environmental impact of the oil spill, which is drifting in predicted patterns and washing up on nearby beaches. Currently, 170 individuals are involved in the clean-up operation, with more expected to join the efforts in the coming days.

Environmental patrols will continue to monitor the containment of oil and assess weather conditions to ensure the safety of the clean-up operation. The public is encouraged to report any sightings of oil or debris along the West Coast and to avoid attempting recovery themselves to prevent further environmental damage. The cause of the vessel’s stranding is still under investigation by authorities.

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