Trinidad and Tobago: Shipwreck Oil Threat

Trinidad and Tobago is grappling with a significant oil spill resulting from a mysterious shipwreck that occurred last week.

Prime Minister Keith Rowley declared the situation a "national emergency," emphasizing the ongoing challenge of bringing the spill under control.

The unidentified vessel, which overturned on 7th February i.e., last week, without issuing a distress signal and lacking crew members or clear ownership details, has unleashed a substantial oil spill affecting approximately 10 miles of coastline.

Efforts to contain and clean up the spill are hampered by the leak's persistent flow, impeding restoration endeavors. Despite intensive diver interventions, the leak remains undiminished.

Volunteers have mobilized in large numbers to assist in oil containment measures.

The spill's repercussions extend to Lambeau village on Tobago Island's southeast coast, prompting advisories for residents to either don masks or consider temporary relocation.

Prime Minister Rowley hinted at suspicions regarding the vessel's involvement in illicit activities, citing its ambiguous identity, named as Gulfstream.

Investigations into the shipwreck persist, with divers combing for identifying markers and officials speculating about potential towing involvement.

The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management (ODPM) has furnished equipment to aid the Tobago Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) in response efforts. The Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force (TTDF) has also contributed essential resources, including Tyvek suits, hazmat bins, and shovels, to bolster cleanup and containment operations.

Regrettably, the disaster coincides with the Carnival season, a crucial period for the nation's tourism sector.