MUSCAT, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Omani authorities are responding to the grounding of a vessel off the Hallaniyat Islands in the southern governorate of Dhofar, with efforts underway to minimize any potential environmental impact, the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, and the Environment Authority said on Thursday.
In a joint statement, the two authorities said they are working in coordination with relevant government agencies to deal with the grounding of the vessel CAROLINE BEZENGI near the Hallaniyat Islands.
According to the statement, specialized technical teams have been deployed to monitor the developments and stand ready to implement approved emergency response plans to address any potential effects on the marine environment or navigational safety.
The authorities said that they are continuing to monitor the situation using satellite imagery, field surveys and technical modeling to assess any emerging challenges and support decision-making based on the latest assessments.
According to media reports, the tanker has been grounded since June after its crew reported an explosion on board, with the oil spill from the vessel recently expanding significantly. ■
