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Challenges of Combating Oil

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Context

  • The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) organized a ‘Pollution Response Seminar and Mock Drill’ in West Bengal to address critical challenges of combating oil spills at sea.

What is an Oil Spill?

  • An oil spill is the release of a liquid petroleum hydrocarbon from tankers, offshore platforms, drilling rigs, or wells into the environment, especially marine areas.
  • Spilled substances: These may be refined petroleum products, such as gasoline and diesel fuel, as well as their by-products — heavier fuels used by large ships such as bunker fuel or oily refuse of any kind.

Past incidences

International Incidence:

  • Venezuela: In 2020 oil leakage from the El Palito refinery in Venezuela.
  • Japanese ship MV Wakashio carrying fuel oil split into two parts near Blue Bay Marine Park in south-east Mauritius.
  • Russia: Arctic (Norilsk diesel fuel spill) Oil Spill
  • Deepwater Horizon oil spill: Gulf of Mexico, 2010
  • Indian incidents:
  • Chennai 2017: Two ships collided off Kamarajar Port Limited’s (KPL) harbor and resulted in a major oil spill disaster.
  • Sundarban 2014: The oil spill in Sela River, Bangladesh created an environmental concern for India too.
  • ONGC Uran Plan leaked oil in the Arabian Sea in 2013.
  • Mumbai coast: In 2010 two ships collided causing the 800 tonnes of the oil spill.

Damage caused by oil spill

  • Environmental Impact: Oil spills harm various species of fish, birds, mammals, and other marine life. The oil can coat and damage the fur or feathers of animals, making it difficult for them to swim or fly.
  • Habitat Destruction: Oil can contaminate coastal habitats, including beaches, marshes, and mangroves, leading to long-term damage.
  • Fisheries and Aquaculture: Contaminated waters can lead to reduced fish populations and damage to fishing gear, affecting the livelihoods of communities dependent on these activities.
  • In the case of Ennore, fishermen have not been able to venture into fishing as fish catch smells of oil.
  • Tourism: Coastal areas affected by oil spills often experience a decline in tourism due to the negative perception of polluted beaches and waters. This can result in economic losses for local businesses and communities.
  • Exposure to Toxic Substances: The chemicals present in oil, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), pose health risks to humans. Inhalation of fumes, ingestion of contaminated seafood, or direct skin contact with oil can lead to respiratory problems, skin irritation, and long-term health effects.

International Efforts for Dealing with Oil Spill

  • International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL): It was rolled out by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) in 1973 and recognized the need for international coherent efforts for curbing oil spills.
  • International Convention on Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response, and Cooperation 1990: It is the international instrument that provides a framework designed to facilitate international cooperation and mutual assistance in preparing for and responding to major oil pollution incidents.

Indian Efforts for Dealing with Oil Spill

  • National Oil Spill Disaster Contingency Plan (NOS-DCP): The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is responsible for maintaining and implementing the Plan. It was promulgated in 1996 and revised in 2015. Its Objectives are:
    • Effective reporting of spillage
    • Prompt response to prevent, control, and combat oil pollution
    • Adequate protection of Public Health and Welfare along the Marine Environment
    • Use of Science and Technology for preventing and managing oil spills and pollution and residuals.
    • Merchant Shipping Act, 1958: The Act, describes the power to give a notice to the owner when the central government is satisfied the ship is not as per the prescribed rules. After notice, if the person fails to comply, the government can convict the person of an offense.

Control measures for Oil Spills

  • Bioremediation: It refers to the use of specific microorganisms to remove any toxic or harmful substances
  • TERI has developed Oil Zapper Bacteria which can degrade the oil quickly.
  • Oil Booms: They are temporary floating barriers used to contain marine spills, protect the environment, and assist in recovery.
  • Using Dispersants: Dispersal agents are chemicals that are sprayed upon the spill with the help of aircraft and boats, which aid the natural breakdown of oil components.
Indian Coast Guard (ICG)

–       ICG is a maritime law enforcement and search and rescue agency of India with jurisdiction over its territorial waters including its contiguous zone and exclusive economic zone.

–       Established in 1977 by the Coast Guard Act, 1978 of the Parliament of India.

–       Parent Agency: Ministry of Defence

–       Headquarters: