Waters of Ukraine's largest port closed after vegetable oil spill

As a result of heavy attacks in recent days on the infrastructure of the Pivdennyi port (north of Odesa), a leak of vegetable oil occurred into the port's waters. The affected area has been temporarily closed until the consequences of the spill are fully dealt with.

Source: Ukrainian Sea Ports Authority; Oleh Kiper, Head of Odesa Oblast Military Administration

Details: It is noted that for the first two days after the attack, the port was under continuous fire. As a result, spill containment efforts could only be carried out partially – exclusively during breaks between air raids.

During this period, specialists gradually enclosed the affected water area with floating boom barriers. After the security situation stabilised, the boom barriers were installed in full.

"It is important to note that this concerns vegetable oil, which is an organic substance subject to natural biological decomposition. The Ukrainian Sea Ports Authority, together with all relevant services, is taking all possible measures to localise the spill and prevent further spread of the pollution, taking into account the current security and weather conditions," the statement said.

The State Environmental Inspectorate of the South-Western District and the Odesa Oblast Centre for Disease Control and Prevention of the Ministry of Health are monitoring water quality. The Environmental Inspectorate is documenting the environmental damage.

The coastline has been cordoned off.

Background:

• Vegetable oil spills and the bodies of dead birds have been found on two of Odesa's beaches. The pollution was caused by a Russian attack that resulted in the oil spilling into the waters of the Black Sea.
• Russian attacks on Ukraine's port infrastructure could lead to a significant decline in trade.

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