Dolphins are dying

التالى السابق

Russia Made an Environmental disaster

REPORTS - 6 month ago

Environmental Disaster in the Kerch Strait: Oil Spill and Marine Life

Impact

South Eye | Report

In mid-December 2024, two Russian oil tankers, the Volgoneft-212 and Volgoneft-239, encountered severe storms in the Kerch Strait, leading to significant environmental repercussions.

Volgoneft-212: This tanker, carrying approximately 4,300 tons of low-grade heavy fuel oil, split in two after being struck by a large wave, resulting in a substantial oil spill. Tragically, one crew member lost their life, while 12 others were evacuated. 

Volgoneft-239: Also damaged during the storm, this vessel was transporting a similar quantity of oil products. It ran aground near the port of Taman in Russia's Krasnodar region. The crew remained onboard, and evacuation efforts were initially hindered by adverse weather conditions. 

The oil spill has contaminated at least 60 kilometers of shoreline, notably affecting areas near Anapa, a town in the Krasnodar region. This region is home to various species of dolphins and birds, which have already been impacted by chemical pollution and previous environmental disasters. 

In the aftermath of the spill, at least 11 dolphins were found dead, their airways clogged by the heavy fuel oil. Additionally, numerous birds have been observed covered in oil, struggling to survive. Volunteers and environmental organizations are actively working to rescue and rehabilitate affected wildlife. 

Cleanup operations are underway, with over 7,500 individuals, including volunteers, involved in mitigating the damage. More than 12,000 tons of contaminated soil have been cleared along a 34-kilometer stretch. Despite these efforts, oil continues to wash ashore, indicating the ongoing severity of the spill. 

Russian authorities have initiated criminal investigations into potential breaches of maritime safety regulations by the captains of the damaged ships. One captain has been placed under investigative custody, while the other is under house arrest. The investigations could lead to significant legal consequences, including imprisonment or correctional labor. 

Environmental organizations, including Greenpeace, have expressed deep concern over the ecological impact of the spill, warning that it could become one of the largest environmental disasters in the Black Sea. Ukrainian officials have called for increased sanctions against Russian tankers, highlighting the risks posed by aging vessels and inadequate safety measures. 

The Kerch Strait oil spill represents a significant environmental disaster with long-term implications for marine life and coastal ecosystems. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed, and ongoing cleanup efforts are crucial to mitigate the impact. This incident underscores the pressing need for stringent maritime safety regulations and proactive measures to prevent future environmental catastrophes.