Mauritius declares a state of emergency
9th August: Mauritius has declared a state of emergency after a ship leaked oil near the country.
The ship MV Wakashio ran around on a coral reef off the Indian Ocean island on 25 July and its crew was evacuated. But the large bulk carrier has since begun leaking tons of fuel into the surrounding waters.
SOPs to follow while resumption of Restaurants
Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth announced a “state of environmental emergency” on Friday.
The Prime Minister also reached out to France asking for help as the island nation does not have the skills and expertise to deal with such a situation. Additionally, the French island of reunion is near Mauritius in the Indian Ocean.
Mauritius hosts the coral reef and is known for its tourism industry with mindblowing views and it’s warm inviting weather.
Happy Khambule of Greenpeace Africa said that “thousands” of animal species “are at risk of drowning in a sea of pollution, with dire consequences for Mauritius’ economy, food security, and health.”
The ship was owned by a Japanese company but registered in Panama. It had 4000 tonnes of oil on board.
MV Wakashio is currently lying at Pointe d’Esny, in an area of wetlands near a marine park.
Delhi Court Frees 60 Malaysians after Rs 7k Fine Each
The environment ministry reportedly said attempts to stabilize the vessel and to pump out the oil failed due to rough seas.
“This is the first time that we are faced with a catastrophe of this kind, and we are insufficiently equipped to handle this problem,” Fishing Minister Sudheer Maudhoo said.
The police have also opened an inquiry into this case.
Stay tuned to Baaghi TV for more updates!
