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In a distressing turn of events, the oil spill stemming from the Chennai Petroleum Corporation Ltd (CPCL) refinery has sprawled across a vast 20 square kilometres into the sea, according to recent reports by the Coast Guard. The aftermath of this ongoing spill, now in its second week, continues to wreak havoc on the ecologically sensitive Ennore Creek in Chennai.
The Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board attributes the spill to deficient stormwater management at CPCL, causing the overflow of oil-mixed water during last week’s floods triggered by Cyclone Michaung. Local fishermen, including Suresh, lament the devastating consequences, citing the loss of livelihood as fish populations dwindle.
Despite the belated deployment of spill containment methods such as oil boomers, skimmers, and gully suckers, environmentalist Nityanand Jayaraman criticizes the delayed response, asserting that the damage to the eco-sensitive creek has now reached its peak. In response, the Pollution Control Board has mandated CPCL to identify and address oil spill hotspots, issuing strict directives under the threat of operational suspension for non-compliance.
Efforts are now underway to compensate those who suffered property loss or health hazards due to the spill, with authorities acknowledging the entry of oil-contaminated floodwater into hundreds of homes during Cyclone Michaung. Residents in affected areas report respiratory issues and skin problems. Despite the mobilization of additional machines to contain the spill, the assessment of its magnitude remains elusive nearly a week after the disaster.
Tamil Nadu Environment Secretary Supriya Sahu emphasizes the urgent need for oil skimmers and the involvement of additional machines and experts to address the evolving situation. As the crisis unfolds, calls for immediate action and accountability are growing, highlighting the critical importance of a swift and effective response to mitigate the ecological and human impact of this unprecedented disaster.
