Heavy oil slick spotted at Surathkal beach

Surathkal: In an alarming development, a large quantity of oil slick was found on the shores of Surathkal beach on Friday.

However, the source of the oil spill observed remains unknown and needs a thorough investigation for preserving the pristine beaches of the coastal belt.

Some argue that it may be the oil dumped by international oil vessels. For a long time, there have been accusations that the international oil vessels discard oil into the sea when they are anchored off the shore. It is alleged that the international vessels dump the oil waste in the deep sea to avoid paying high clean-up fees at the port.

Even though there is environmental legislation for penalizing wrongdoers, the issue remains unresolved, sources added.

Some said that the oil may have been leaked from the industries that operate in the hinterland. There are many oil producers, refineries, as well as sunken dredgers and vessels in the area. The oil may have leaked from these sources and needs to be investigated.