Oil spill cleanup nears completion: Next phase targets hard-to-reach areas

The extensive cleanup operation following the recent oil spill in Singapore is transitioning into a new phase, focusing on the more challenging task of removing oil remnants from hard-to-reach areas. This next stage is expected to take approximately three months, with public areas reopening progressively as the cleanup advances.

Progress and Challenges

The initial phase of the cleanup, which involved removing oil slicks from the sea and oil-soaked sand from affected beaches, is nearing completion. According to Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu, "The removal of bulk oil from the sea and beaches is nearly complete, as we have not seen oil slicks along the East Coast and Changi since June 18, based on both satellite and drone images".

However, the next phase presents more complex challenges. This stage will focus on cleaning oil remnants in less accessible areas such as rock bunds, breakwaters, and deeper layers of sand where oil could be trapped. "Oil that has slipped into the boulder crevices needs to be thoroughly flushed out," Ms. Fu explained, highlighting the need for specialized equipment and trained personnel to handle these tasks.

Specialized Cleanup Efforts

The cleanup operations will involve various government agencies and private organizations, deploying over 700 personnel and specialized resources. The Maritime and Port Authority (MPA) stated, "We are working with oil spill consultants to deploy the most effective methods for cleaning while minimizing contamination to surrounding areas".

Specialized cleaning has already begun at Sentosa’s Siloso Beach, with the Singapore Civil Defence Force deploying a Rapid Response Fire Vessel to support the efforts. Similar operations will soon commence at other affected areas, including Sentosa Cove, Labrador Nature Reserve, and East Coast Park.

Volunteer Involvement and Public Safety

In the final phase of the cleanup, volunteers will be called upon to assist in removing tar balls—small blobs of coagulated oil mixed with sand. This effort aims to free up professional cleaners for more specialized tasks and expedite the reopening of beaches. "We will ensure that this is conducted safely and that volunteers are properly equipped," Ms. Fu assured.

Public safety remains a top priority. Even after beaches are cleaned and reopened, swimming and water activities will only resume once water quality is confirmed to be safe. Water samples will be collected and tested to ensure they meet pre-incident levels and remain stable for about a week.

Environmental and Economic Impact

The oil spill has had significant environmental and economic impacts. Coastal ecosystems have been disrupted, and beach-front businesses, particularly those involved in sea-based activities, have been affected. The government is closely monitoring the situation and working with affected businesses to mitigate the impact.

Despite the challenges, the authorities are optimistic about the progress made and are prepared for any surprises that may arise during the cleanup. "We think that three months is a good gauge, but we are getting ourselves ready for surprises," Ms. Fu noted.

The cleanup of the recent oil spill in Singapore is a testament to the coordinated efforts of various agencies and the resilience of the community. As the operation moves into its next phase, the focus will be on ensuring thorough cleaning of hard-to-reach areas and restoring the affected beaches to their pristine condition. With continued vigilance and community support, Singapore aims to overcome this environmental challenge and safeguard its coastal ecosystems for future generations.