The Alyarmouk: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

The extensively damaged tanker 'Alyarmouk', which has been anchored near Singapore since January 3rd, has officially begun its repair process at Benoi Yard, part of Keppel Shipyard Ltd. The vessel entered the yard on March 3rd at approximately 3 a.m. to address significant damage on its starboard side. For images of the tanker during this phase, visit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/33438735@N08/16528061469/

An urgent response is underway to tackle a substantial oil spill in the Singapore Strait as environmental teams race against time to prevent the slick from encroaching upon the sensitive turtle nesting zones located on Bintan Island. The incident occurred on January 2, 2024, when the 'Alyarmouk' collided with the Singaporean cargo vessel 'Sinar Kapuas,' resulting in an estimated 4,500 tons of crude oil being discharged approximately 11 nautical miles from Pedra Branca's shoreline, northeast of Singapore. This accident has been deemed a major spill, marking one of the most significant environmental challenges faced in the region in recent years. The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPAS) has reported that recent satellite imagery has not yet indicated that the oil has breached the resort beaches of Bintan Island. However, authorities remain alert, as the potential for the spill to reach land exists over the upcoming weekend. Commencing on January 3, two marine services companies initiated cleanup operations employing dispersants, oil booms, and skimmers aimed at minimizing the oil slick's spread. Compounding the situation, increased storm activity is expected in the vicinity of the Singapore Strait this weekend, which could hinder containment and cleanup endeavors.

In a notable maritime incident, a collision between the Libyan-registered oil tanker Alyarmouk and the Singaporean-registered bulk carrier Sinar Kapuas took place early this morning, January 2, 2023, in Singapore's waters. The collision occurred at approximately 6 AM local time, roughly 11 nautical miles northeast of Pedra Branca, resulting in an oil spill and damage to both vessels. According to reports from Tradewinds, the Maritime & Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) stated that they have informed Malaysian and Indonesian authorities regarding the spill. MPA has initiated a swift response, deploying a helicopter to evaluate the situation and mobilizing oil spill response resources. As part of their standard protocol for joint oil spill operations in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore, MPA has coordinated with neighboring authorities. Fortunately, both ships involved in the accident are currently anchored and safe, with no injuries reported among the crew members. MPA has issued navigational alerts urging vessels in the area to exercise caution in light of the incident. Meanwhile, Singapore's port and Strait traffic remain unaffected. While the extent of the damages sustained by the Sinar Kapuas has not yet been disclosed, real-time ship tracking data at 3 PM local time indicated that the vessel was en route to Singapore, moving at a speed of 4 knots.