As a result of a disaster in the Kerch Strait, a spill of oil products threatens the ecosystems of the Black and Azov Seas. According to official information, the two tankers – – – – – – Volgoneft 212" and – Volgoneft 239" – were carrying a total of 9,200 tons of fuel oil. The first tanker was carrying 4,900 tons of fuel, while the second, from which 4,300 tons leaked, is the main source of pollution, News.bg reports.
The actual volume of spilled oil products is still being determined, but the impact is already assessed as serious.
Environmental Forecasts and Hazards
The environmental organization "Greenpeace" warns of significant consequences:
- Currents and winds: Pollution driven by northeasterly currents could reach the coasts, complicating cleanup efforts.
- Impact on the coastline: If the fuel oil reaches land, coastal pollution could remain irreversible for years.
- Comparison with a past incident: The accident near Tuzla Island in 2007 is recalled, when a spill of 1,200 tons of fuel oil had a long-term negative effect on marine ecosystems.
Possible difficulties and reaction from the Russian side
"Greenpeace" expresses doubts that the Russian services will take adequate measures to minimize the damage. The reasons for this include the militarization of the Black Sea and limited efforts to protect the environment while the war in Ukraine continues.
Responsibility for the response and assessment of the consequences has been entrusted to "Rosrybolovstvo". The organization said that it will start monitoring the situation only after the normalization of weather conditions.
Crew rescue and ongoing operations
The crew evacuation operation is taking place in extremely difficult weather conditions:
- 13 people from the tanker "Volgoneft 212" were successfully rescued and hospitalized in Anapa.
- The crew of "Volgoneft 239" is currently safe, but evacuation has been suspended due to bad weather and darkness.
Over 200 people are involved in the spill response, but the process has been complicated by rough waters and adverse weather conditions.
The Kerch Strait spill highlights the potential dangers of transporting petroleum products in areas of high ecological vulnerability. Despite ongoing efforts, the projected consequences remain serious, and the long-term damage to marine ecosystems could be significant.