MV Wakashio, grounded since July 25, developed cracks over the weekend. - Screencapture Via R1

MV Wakashio, grounded since July 25, developed cracks over the weekend.

Screencapture Via R1

An estimated 1,300 tons of crude oil has spilled into the Indian Ocean in the last four days from a tanker that ran aground in late July, officials with the Republic of Mauritius report.

The Japanese tanker MV Wakashio, reportedly carrying 4,300 tons of crude, hit a coral reef on July 25. It was not until Friday that cracks appeared in the vessel’s hull.

MV Wakashio, a bulk carrier sailing under a Panamanian flag of convenience, ran aground off Pointe d’Esny, south of Mauritus. Officials had asked for help from other countries in pumping out the cargo before a larger scale environmental disaster could occur.

The incident occurred an internationally protected wetlands on Mauritius, a popular vacation destination.

0 Comments