RAYONG, Jan 31 (TNA) – The cleanup of oil slicks at Mae Ramphueng beach was successful and officials concerned were watching out for possible impacts on the Ao Phrao bay of Ko Samet island, according to the minister of natural resources and environment.
Varawut Silpa-archa, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, said the clean-up of oil slicks happened quickly at Mae Ramphueng, oil-stained sand was removed, the normal condition of the beach was restored and officials would be watching for the remaining oil slicks that were moving towards Ao Phrao of Ko Samet.
The Mae Ramphueng beach was safe as winds were blowing oil slicks to the east. The oil slicks were moving towards Ao Phrao. Officials planned to lay containment booms at a 500-meter-wide channel to protect the coastline of Rayong.
Minister Varawut asked provincial authorities to suspend local fishing for about a month and give assistance to affected people. He said Star Petrolem Refining pcl, the owner of the undersea oil pipeline that leaked crude oil last week, would be sued for damage to marine resources.
The Pollution Control Department would report the quality of seawater until situations returned to normal, Mr Varawut said. (TNA)
