Oil spill pollutes Mauritius

Oil disaster in Mauritius - 24th August 2020

A Japanese bulk carrier cargo vessel has run aground and broken apart on the coastline of Mauritius, pouring polluting fuel into the ocean. The once turquoise water is now stained black and brown. Experts are warning that the area faces widespread damage for a generation.

An island in the Indian Ocean off the south-east coast of Africa to the west of Madagascar, Mauritius is prized for its biodiversity, including spectacular coral reefs lining its idyllic coasts.

The ship, MV Wakashio, ran aground near the Blue Bay Marine Park in late July and soon began spilling oil from its tanks. Satellite images show the murky spill stretching between the Mauritius mainland and the tiny island of Ile aux Aigrettes.

Oil spills devastate the surrounding environment and clean up efforts are exceedingly challenging. Only around 10% of each spill is typically recovered, and they cause serious damage to ecosystems for many years.

The location of this spill is magnifying the harm to the environment. Mauritius is prized for its diverse and rare habitats containing high concentrations of unique flora and fauna. The coral reefs, seagrasses and mangroves make Mauritian waters extraordinarily rich in biodiversity. As well as being a major part of the island's tourism, the reefs provide protection against storms and erosion. Marine biologists are concerned that toxic hydrocarbons in the oil may bleach the reefs and eventually kill them.

Technical advisers flocked to the area after the Mauritian prime minister appealed for urgent international assistance. Many volunteers worked tirelessly to rescue baby tortoises and rare plants from Ile aux Aigrettes, transporting them to the mainland for protection.

Mauritius has advised it will seek compensation for the spill. Japanese firm Nagashiki shipping, which owns the ship, has already promised to respond to any requests.