Crude oil spillage has polluted the Algarve beaches as authorities ban swimming. It is reported that two beaches have been affected by this spillage located in Vila do Bispo Municipality. The government has imposed a ban on these two beaches at the moment.
Oil Spillage Pollutes Two Beaches
The Cabanas Velhas and Boca do Rio have been affected by the crude oil spillage on these two beaches. Both these two beaches are located in the Vila do Bispo municipality. The quality of water has dropped since the leakage of oil. Authorities have banned everyone from visiting these two beaches for bathing. The oil was found at the Cabanas Velhas first. It was reported by the AMN national maritime authorities. They are still unsure about the origin of this oil spillage. The national maritime authority has stated:
All contaminated material collected” has been sent to “an appropriate treatment unit via Vila do Bispo town hall.
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Oil spillage is very dangerous in the sea which can cause contamination and spread several diseases. The situation is now being investigated by the Southern Maritime Department along with the Directorate of Combating Pollution at Sea. They have generated high alert and activated a plan for 3rd level of readiness for cleaning the sea. Authorities are still trying to clean up the sea to avoid any contamination in the region.
Oil Gradually Spreading In Sea
The crude oil spillage is gradually spreading to other areas of the region. Authorities started the clean-up drive for oil spillage when they noticed that Boca do Rio was also polluted by the same oil spillage. The oil is spreading through the coast due to which the Boca do Rio was also polluted. The National Maritime Authority believes that controlling these oil spills is very crucial. They further informed us that Mar Limpo, an environmental consultant will be helping with the clean-up plan. The National Maritime Authority stated:
The general aim of the Mar Limpo Plan is to establish a response mechanism for hydrocarbon and other dangerous substance spills, and for situations where there is an imminent threat of such spills, to define responsibilities of the organizations involved and to establish their competencies.
No Culprit Found Yet
Government agencies are looking for the reason behind this crude oil spillage, but no source has been found yet. They are also trying to locate a culprit for this pollution of water, but it is unclear right now. Authorities are still looking for a clue. The police patrol boats in the region have been increased temporarily due to the oil spillage. The government has clearly told the public to avoid these two beaches at the moment for their safety.
Agencies started the cleaning operation as soon as they received the reports about sea pollution. However, the high tides and lack of visibility made the clean-up drive impossible at night. This forced the authorities to begin the clean-up process during the day. All the contaminated material was brought to a proper treatment unit where it was refined and cleaned. This process was aided by the City Council of Vila do Bispo city.
The purpose of this clean-up is to generate a response for situations where oil spillage happens at sea. These plans are also effective for the spillage of hydrocarbons and some of the other materials that are harmful and hazardous.
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