Cleanup operation of oil spill at HIP completed

The oil spill occurred at approximately 6 pm on Sunday, July 11, 2021 whilst a bunkering barge was refueling a commercial vessel that had called at the port. “Minimal chemicals were utilized in the cleaning operation, keeping the environment in mind by using ecofriendly means- including manual oil retrieval was carried out.

This method took more time but it’s a more effective and thorough way of cleaning up smaller oil spills,” Ravi Jayawickreme, CEO of Hambantota International Port Services said.

The commercial vessel has in the meanwhile been detained until costs incurred are accepted and settled by its owners.