Dhofar – Environment Authority (EA) continues to monitor developments related to the grounded vessel near Al Qibliyah Island, part of the Hallaniyat Islands archipelago in Dhofar Governorate, while carrying out environmental monitoring, surveying, and response operations in coordination with relevant authorities.

Technical monitoring tools, satellite imagery, and numerical models are currently being utilised to track the movement and spread of oil slicks and forecast potential areas they may reach.

Monitoring results have shown that some beaches in the Ras Madrakah area have been affected by oil pollution, with current models indicating that the affected coastline could extend for up to 40 km.

Available data also show that the southern coast of Masirah Island may be affected in the coming hours along a stretch ranging from ten to 20 km.

Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources is continuing to monitor developments regarding the grounded ship incident within the Al Hallaniyat Islands archipelago in the Governorate of Dhofar, in coordination with relevant authorities, while also observing any potential impacts on the marine environment.

As part of precautionary measures, the Food Safety Quality Centre is carrying out inspection and testing operations by taking seafood samples from products traded in local markets to verify their safety and compliance with approved health standards.

The ministry has called upon fishermen and beachgoers to adhere to official instructions, report any unusual oil slicks, unaccustomed odours in the water, or notable changes in marine life, and avoid fishing in locations where such indicators are observed.

Furthermore, the ministry emphasised that these measures are part of ongoing precautionary follow-ups to safeguard the safety of seafood and consumer health, highlighting the importance of obtaining information solely from official sources.

Specialised teams continue to carry out monitoring and take necessary measures to limit the spread of pollution and minimise its impacts, giving priority to areas of high environmental sensitivity.

Furthermore, the Environment Authority urges fishermen, coastal visitors, and the public not to approach, touch, or handle any contaminated materials, and to report them immediately to the relevant authorities while promising regular updates through official channels.