City and maritime authorities resume with SELI 1 oil spill cleaning up operations
04 September 2011
The joint response committee assembled at the disaster command post opposite the SELI 1 vessel to resume with clean-up operations at first daylight, Sunday, 4 September 2011.
The marine patrol aircraft Kuswag 9 from the Department of Environmental Affairs conducted an aerial survey at 09:00 this morning and based on observations from the crew the oil slick has dissipated considerably.
The operations as detailed in the Cape Zone Oil Spill Plan which is coordinated by the Department of Environmental Affairs has been activated to ensure that the coastline is cleaned up as soon as possible. The Department of Environmental Affairs: Oceans and Coasts Branch has made a concerted effort together with the City and supporting agencies to ensure that the affected area is cleaned up.
The City has deployed additional crews from Solid Waste Management, Law Enforcement and Metropolitan Police Department to ensure rapid clean-up of the coastline.
The area adjacent to the wreckage is currently the priority area whereafter clean-up will take place systematically from the worst affected areas to the outlying areas along the coastline.
A boom has been placed at the Milnerton Lagoon by Transnet: National Ports Authority to prevent potential pollution to the estuaries.
The City is in close contact with the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station regarding any potential pollution to the in-take basin at the plant as a precautionary measure.
Intensive monitoring of the impact of the oil spill on wildlife in the area continues. According to reports received there has been no pollution on Robben Island, however three penguins affected by the oil have been spotted in the bird breeding colony. Attempts will be made to capture them for cleaning and rehabilitation by SANCCOB.
An appeal is made to members of the public to adhere to the following public advisories:
•	no recreational activities such as swimming, boating, kite surfing, canoeing/paddle skiing will be permitted around the vessel.
•	swimming is probihited between Dolphin and Beach and Sir David Baird Drive, Bloubergstrand
•	restrictions are in place for the consumption of any shellfish or collection of bait along the affected coastline
•	do not attempt to capture any seals or seabirds affected by the oil spill, but rather contact the relevant authorities.
The City appreciates the overwhelming response and offers of assistance by the community to volunteer their services. Currently the operation is well-resourced, however the community are welcome to provide refreshments to the crews that are working around the clock.
Any reports of oil spills as well as oiled seals and seabirds in distress can contact the City’s Disaster Operations Centre on Tel: 080 911 HELP (4357).
This is a joint media release by the City of Cape Town, the Department of Environmental Affairs and the South African Maritime Safety Authority.
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