Sunday 16 / August / 2026
Muscat: Oil pollution affecting beaches in the Ras Madrakah area could extend along up to 40 kilometres of coastline, Oman’s Environment Authority said in its latest update on the grounded vessel near Al Qibliyah Island in the Hallaniyat Islands archipelago.
The authority said specialised teams are continuing environmental monitoring, surveying and response operations in coordination with relevant authorities.
Satellite imagery, technical monitoring systems and numerical models are being used to track the movement and spread of oil slicks and forecast areas that could potentially be affected.
According to the latest monitoring results, several beaches in the Ras Madrakah area have already been affected by the pollution. Current models indicate that the affected coastline in the same area could extend for up to 40km.
The authority also warned that the southern coast of Masirah Island could be affected in the coming hours, with available data indicating a potentially impacted stretch of between 10km and 20km.
Specialised teams are continuing monitoring, follow-up and response operations, with measures being taken to contain the spread of pollution and minimise its potential environmental impact.
The authority said priority is being given to areas of high environmental sensitivity as response teams work to assess and address the effects of the oil pollution.
The oil spill alert
On a calm morning along Oman’s coastline, fishermen and beach visitors noticed a dark patch spreading across the surface of the sea. Concerned about the environment and marine life, they immediately informed the authorities.
The Environment Authority quickly began monitoring the situation and issued an alert to the public. People were advised to stay away from the affected area, avoid touching any oily substances, and not swim in contaminated waters. Although some volunteers wanted to help, officials reminded everyone not to attempt cleaning the spill themselves, as improper handling could be dangerous.
A family visiting the beach spotted several seabirds near the polluted water. Remembering the official guidance, they did not approach the animals. Instead, they reported what they had seen through the emergency contact number provided by the authorities.
Throughout the day, residents followed updates from official sources and avoided spreading unverified information. Their cooperation helped emergency teams work safely and efficiently.
Thanks to the combined efforts of the authorities and the public, the situation was managed effectively. The incident became a reminder that protecting the environment is a shared responsibility and that following official safety instructions can help keep both people and wildlife safe.
Together, everyone played a part in protecting the sea for future generations.
The Environment Authority urged fishermen, coastal visitors and members of the public not to approach, touch or handle any contaminated materials that may be found along affected areas.
Members of the public were also advised to report any contaminated materials to the relevant authorities.
The authority said it would continue to closely monitor developments and provide further updates through its official communication channels.
