Chennai Oil Spill: Massive Cleaning After Cyclone Michaung

Chennai’s Ennore Creek is grappling with a significant oil spill triggered by Cyclone Michaung, with over 75 boats and 300 workers tirelessly engaged in the cleanup. The spill, originating from the Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited (CPCL), has prompted the state government to escalate mitigation efforts, deploying additional booms, skimmers, and trained personnel.

The aftermath of the oil spill, persisting for over 10 days, has adversely affected coastal communities dependent on the region’s habitat, biodiversity, and aquatic life. The cleanup involves manual collection of spilled oil into drums, along with the use of machines for extraction.

Key updates on the ongoing efforts include the State Oil Crisis Management Group’s examination, led by Chief Secretary Shiv Das Meena. CPCL has received directives to ensure the safety of personnel involved in mitigation work. Boats are actively removing oil from the water surface, and cleanup initiatives, including the removal of oil-soaked debris, are in progress. Booms have been strategically placed to contain oil spread, and additional oil skimmers are set to be deployed.

Health measures include mobile health camps for residents and a special camp for stray and pet animals. Various departments, including the Forest Department, TN Pollution Control Board, and Environment Department, are overseeing the operations.

The spill’s origin traces back to fishermen noticing oil during Cyclone Michaung on December 4. CPCL initially denied leakage, but pollution control authorities confirmed the spill’s origin from CPCL, flowing into the Buckingham Canal and reaching Ennore Creek. The National Green Tribunal has instructed the state to compensate for livelihood losses suffered by impacted families.

In response to the crisis, the Oil Crisis Management Group directed comprehensive assessments by the Commissioner of Greater Chennai Corporation and the Director of Fisheries to report on affected families.

As the cleanup continues, the gravity of the situation underscores the need for coordinated efforts to mitigate environmental and economic repercussions in the region.