A magistrate in Colombo, Sri Lanka has ordered the master of a tanker that caused a minor oil spill in the harbor to stay in the country for 30 days. The decision was made as the port authority and environmental bureau work to resolve a claim against the Indian owner of the vessel. The product tanker, named Ark Prestige, arrived in Sri Lanka on April 18 and is awaiting repairs. On May 25, port officials discovered an oil stain in the harbor, which was traced back to the tanker. The spill spread approximately 65 to 100 feet from the ship, with some oil washing up on shore.
The Indian owner of the vessel has accepted responsibility for the spill and has pledged to compensate for the damage caused. However, following a recommendation from the Colombo Port Police, the master of the tanker, an Indian national named Raj Dev Yadev, was brought before the magistrate. On May 29, an order was issued requiring the master to remain in Sri Lanka for one month. The Maritime Environment Protection Authority is seeking 15 million Sri Lankan Rupees (around $50,000) in compensation for the oil spill.
The incident involving the Ark Prestige has raised concerns about environmental damage in the area. Pictures show efforts to contain the oil spill with a boom set up to catch the oil that washed up on the harbor wall. The authorities are working diligently to address the issue and ensure that appropriate measures are taken to mitigate any further environmental impact.
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