Chennai oil spill cleanup's initial phase nears completion: minister

Chennai: Tamil Nadu Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin has announced that the initial phase of the cleanup operation addressing the recent oil spill in Chennai is expected to conclude within the next 4-5 days.

Following an inspection of the site on Friday, the minister expressed that while the cleanup process would be protracted, the first stage is nearing completion.

Efforts are underway to construct a comprehensive framework to manage similar incidents effectively in the future, ensuring better preparedness and response mechanisms.

The oil spill, extending across approximately 20 sqkm into the sea, occurred following the aftermath of Cyclone Michaung, posing a threat to the eco-sensitive Ennore Creek in Chennai.

The cleanup activities gained traction after the National Green Tribunal's reprimand of the Chennai Petroleum Corporation Ltd (CPCL) for the sluggish pace of mitigation work. The CPCL, originating from whose refinery the oil spill originated, pledged to eliminate 95% of the spill by the week's end.

Acknowledging the urgency of the situation, an expert highlighted the critical time lost and the spreading impact of the spill. While recognising the long and demanding process ahead, experts underscored the crucial focus on safeguarding Ennore Creek.

The cleanup strategy involves the gradual extraction of a substantial oil volume utilising skimmers, gully suckers, and manual collection by nearly 300 fishermen on approximately 100 boats. Subsequent steps aim to utilise thousands of pads to absorb any remaining floating oil films.

The company has deployed four-layered booms to contain the spread and engaged a private oil spill mitigation company from Mumbai. Operating skimmers on boats have been dispatched to the creek's worst-affected areas to facilitate the pumping of contaminated waters into containers.

According to the Tamil Nadu Government's statement, around 276 barrels, containing 48.6 tonnes of oil waste, have been gathered, accounting for an estimated 15 tonnes of oil.

Investigations by IIT Madras are ongoing to assess the spill's impact, as CPCL has yet to share detailed data. Additionally, the Chennai Petroleum Corporation Ltd has initiated medical examinations for communities residing around the creek.

However, concerns persist among local fishermen and residents regarding the spill's enduring effects on their livelihoods and the ecosystem of Ennore Creek. Suresh, President of the Ennore Fisherman Association, expressed distress over the loss of fertile fishing grounds, impacting their ability to earn a living.