On Sunday, the Coast Guard reported that the recent oil spill in Chennai has been contained within the Ennore Creek area, with no signs of the spill spreading further. The spill, which was initially detected on December 10, has been effectively managed and neutralized by Coast Guard ships and helicopters, according to a Defence release.
The oil spill occurred after floodwaters mixed with oil, leading to contamination in Ernavur, north Chennai. The contamination spread to Ennore Creek and the Buckingham Canal, with some traces reaching the coastal waters near the Kosathalaiyar River mouth. The oil spill, estimated to cover around 20 square kilometers, varied in color from light sheen to dark brown, with an estimated volume of approximately 10 tonnes based on standard spill calculation methods.
The Coast Guard confirmed that the spill did not extend into the sea, as the outflow of floodwaters into the sea through the Kosathalaiyar River was minimal. The oil remains confined within the creek, where contractors are actively managing the situation. Continuous monitoring by Coast Guard ships and helicopters has ensured that no oil slick has reached the coastal areas.
The Coast Guard is also assisting the Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited (CPCL) and the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board with expert advice for the assessment, cleaning, and recovery of the spilled oil. This support is crucial for addressing the impact on local communities and fishermen affected by the spill.
The spill originated from the CPCL refinery in north Chennai, and related issues are currently under review by the National Green Tribunal’s southern bench. The situation remains under close watch to mitigate any further environmental impact.
