A grounded shadow fleet tanker carrying Russian crude is at risk of breaking apart off the coast of Oman, raising fears of a major oil spill in a protected marine area.
The 159,168 dwt tanker Caroline Bezengi ran aground near the Hallaniyat Islands after reporting an onboard explosion in early June while sailing from Russia to India. The 2001-built vessel had loaded crude at Novorossiysk and is under EU, UK and US sanctions for transporting Russian oil.
Satellite images taken in July appear to show an oil slick around the vessel. Analysts believe the images indicate an active oil spill, although Omani authorities have not confirmed the pollution.
According to maritime sources, the crew abandoned the tanker after it developed serious technical problems. The vessel has since settled further onto the rocks, increased its list and suffered seawater ingress into several cargo tanks.
Omani maritime authorities conducted an onboard survey of the ship on July 12 and noted considerable deterioration. Reports also suggest crude oil has entered ballast tanks and parts of the double hull, increasing the risk of structural failure and a possible explosion. All of the oil tanks, except for one, are fully loaded.
Salvage experts are considering pumping the cargo to another tanker before attempting to refloat the vessel. However, strong monsoon conditions, the ship’s worsening condition and uncertainty over the owner’s involvement are delaying the operation. Authorities have reportedly been unable to establish effective contact with the vessel’s Shanghai-based manager, Rentoor Shipmanagement.
The Hallaniyat Islands are home to protected humpback whales, sea turtles and seabirds. A major spill could cause serious long-term damage to the marine reserve and Oman’s coastline.
