Barran Press
The General Authority for Environmental Protection (GAEP) has reported an oil spill contaminating the coast of the Mahram area in the Buraiqah district of Aden, the temporary capital of Yemen. The affected stretch of coastline is estimated to be between 250 and 300 meters long.
In a statement released to "Barran Press," the GAEP described the oil spill as causing the formation of tar balls along the coastline towards the Qasr Hotel. The tar balls were observed on August 14, 15, and 16, 2024, and their presence remains a concern.
The GAEP also pointed to the presence of a "derelict tanker" off the coast of the Haswa area, which is being dismantled without any oversight from relevant authorities. Additionally, numerous dilapidated vessels remain within the anchorage and dumping area of Aden International Port, posing a constant threat to the marine environment and coastal areas due to potential oil spills and their harmful effects.
The GAEP has urged immediate action from concerned institutions to address the situation. They recommend the swift offloading of oil stored in the tanks and engines of dilapidated ships within the port, as well as the refloating and removal of these vessels to a designated area outside the port for dismantling. The GAEP also emphasized the importance of holding the owners of the derelict ships responsible for environmental damage, in accordance with legal provisions.