WANA (Aug 14) – The Deputy for Marine Environment and Wetlands at the Department of Environment has reported a significant oil spill impacting the Iranian island of Qeshm and its surrounding ecosystems.

 

According to the official briefing, the incident has prompted an ongoing environmental response with several key developments:

 

Extent of Damage: Initial estimates indicate that the oil pollution has impacted 3.2 hectares of coastline and 9 hectares of coastal waters.

 

Affected Areas: The contaminated zones include the shores of Suza, Shib Deraz, and Naghasheh, as well as the Hara mangrove forests and parts of nearby Hengam Island.

 

Cause and Ongoing Operations: Authorities have confirmed the source of the spill is marine-based, noting that ocean currents and monsoon winds drove the oil toward the beaches. Monitoring, containment, and cleanup operations are actively underway.

 

Wildlife Protection: Because the Shib Deraz coastline serves as a crucial habitat and nesting ground for sea turtles, cleanup efforts in this specific area are being conducted with heightened care and sensitivity to protect the local wildlife.