Oil spill from damaged cargo ship pollutes South African coastline.

South Africa is ramping up its coastal clean-up efforts as the Ultrabulk vessel Ultra Galaxy continues to leak oil after breaking into four pieces over the weekend. The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) believes that one of the fuel tanks aboard the vessel has ruptured, with approximately 500 tons of fuel still aboard the wreck. Salvage operations have been suspended due to dangerous surf conditions.

The Ultra Galaxy grounded about 180 miles north of Cape Town, prompting the government to recruit local residents to assist in the clean-up efforts. The coastline south of the wreck is currently covered with oil, but weather conditions are helping contain the spill. SAMSA reports that heavy swells and wind waves are washing the oil onto the immediate beach, preventing it from drifting further down the coastline.

SAMSA is closely monitoring the spill’s environmental impact, particularly on seabirds in the region. Efforts to contain the oil spill will continue throughout the week, following the country’s Oil Spill Contingency Plan. SMIT International has been tasked with salvaging the hulk, with concerns also raised about potential debris from the wreck impacting the marine reserve nearby.

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