A Japanese-controlled bulk carrier that grounded on the paradise island of Mauritius last week has started to leak oil after heavy weather conditions caused the hull to rupture.
The owner of the 203,000-dwt Wakashio (built 2007) confirmed fuel oil had started to escape from the ship’s fuel tanks just over a week after running aground.
Japan's Nagashiki Shipping did not offer any details on how much oil had leaked from the vessel but added that measures are in place to contain the spill.
There is an estimated 4,000 tonnes of low sulphur fuel oil and diesel on board.
Nagashiki said: “Due to the bad weather and constant pounding over the past few days, the starboard side bunker tanker has been breached and an amount of fuel oil has escaped into the sea. Oil prevention measures are in place and an oil boom has been deployed around the vessel.”
The International Tanker Owners Pollution Federation (ITOPF) is on-site to monitor the spill and is advising the shipowner, salvage company Smit and the Mauritius government on the pollution and possible environmental impact, Nagashiki added.
A specialist oil response and salvage team has been established by the owner and its protection and indemnity insurer the Japan P&I Club.
The team is coordinating with the Mauritian authorities to control any pollution.
“Nagashiki Shipping takes its environmental responsibilities extremely seriously and with partner agencies and contractors will make every effort to protect the marine environment and prevent further pollution,,” the Japanese owner added.
The pollution incident is likely to mean that the salvage operation will be delayed, putting the ship's hull at risk. Fuel may also have to be taken off the vessel before a salvage is attempted.
“The situation is being closely monitored and in view of poor sea conditions salvage efforts are currently on hold,” Nagashiki said.
The ship’s crew have now left the vessel and are stationed ashore.
Nagashiki said that it is investigating the cause of the accident along with the local authorities.
