The Wen Hung Dar 168, FV Maan Yu Feng No. 168 and FV Maan Yu Weng No. 1 are still stranded off Pointe aux Sables. They are surrounded by ‘Booms’ to contain any leakage. The Salvage Team’s pumping work is on hold for the day on Thursday 24th February with 2,500 litres of fuel recovered.
Over 48 hours of operation required
“The work cannot be done in the evening and overnight,” said the Police Commissioner, Kumar Dip, who was at the scene for a visual inspection. Moreover, he said that “the work is much more difficult because of the weather conditions, including the swells. The work is delicate and that is why it takes time“. He promised 24/7 monitoring and estimates that this pumping exercise by Polygreen could take a minimum of 48 hours, but in ‘daylight’ hours. Polygreen’s mission is to extract a total of 120 tonnes of fuel oil.
No trace of Oil
At a press briefing on Thursday afternoon, Fisheries Minister, Sudheer Maudhoo said: “As I speak, my officer has confirmed to me that they have surveyed the two Casualty Areas and so far, there is no trace of oil in the sea that could cause pollution. According to the Minister and the CP, the situation is under control and there should be no fear of an oil spill.” As for the traces of oil found in the lagoon on Thursday morning, the minister reassured that “it may be engine oil but not heavy oil. Water samples are under study“.
However, habitats still fear an ecological disaster and this fear will remain alive as long as the Salvage Team has not pumped out the 120 tons that threaten the large population of Sablipointeaux who live from fishing!
