BRUSSELS, April 10 (Xinhua) -- Shipping has resumed on the Scheldt River after an oil spill disrupted operations at Belgium's Port of Antwerp, authorities said on Friday, although the Deurganck Dock remains closed as of 1:30 p.m. local time (1130 GMT).
Specialised vessels are carrying out clean-up operations, with priority given to key areas including the Deurganck Dock, nearby terminals and the main lock complex, the port said in a statement.
Authorities added that the potential impact on riverbanks and surrounding natural areas is being closely monitored in coordination with relevant agencies, focusing on preventing further spread and conducting targeted clean-up in vulnerable zones.
The incident occurred during a bunkering operation on Thursday. Although the source of the leak has been contained and the vessels involved secured for clean-up, the pollution spread overnight into the Scheldt River. ■
