Jeju Coast Guard Office Reports 21 Marine Pollution Incidents... Pollutant Leakage

[Jeju=Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Hwang Jeongpil] The Jeju Regional Maritime Police Agency (Chief Kim Inchang) announced on the 19th that 21 marine pollution incidents occurred in the Jeju waters this year, with 119㎘ of pollutants such as oil spilled.

Compared to the previous year, both the number of pollution incidents and the volume of spills increased significantly, mainly due to a sharp rise caused by the highly publicized fire incidents involving vessels (fishing boats) in Hallim and Seongsan.

This year, there were two marine pollution incidents caused by fires, resulting in damage to a total of six fishing boats. Although the situation was urgent and dangerous at the time, prompt initial responses by the maritime police, fire department, local governments, and related agencies prevented a major marine disaster.

In particular, oil fences were installed around the hulls and oil-absorbing materials were used to prevent the spread of oil, and oil in the fuel tanks of the completely burned vessels was transferred to land, achieving prevention of secondary damage.

The Jeju Maritime Police strengthened on-site response capabilities this year through 10 joint civil-government drills focused on complex accident situations and initial containment, as well as 77 internal drills.

As a result, through containment and preventive measures for 21 marine pollution incidents, 11 cases involving transfer of 123㎘ of oil and 6 cases of sealing breaches and air vents were carried out, achieving a 100% containment rate.

An official from the Jeju Regional Maritime Police Agency stated, “We will do our best to respond to marine pollution incidents and take proactive preventive measures to protect the clean Jeju sea.”

Jeju=Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Hwang Jeongpil baekok@asiae.co.kr

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