Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: PIB
Context: The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) organised a ‘Pollution Response Seminar and Mock Drill ’ recently.
| Topic | Details |
| What is an Oil Spill? | The release of liquid petroleum hydrocarbons into the environment, especially marine areas, from tankers, platforms, rigs, or wells. |
| Substances | Refined products like gasoline, diesel, bunker fuel, or oily refuse. |
| Examples of Incidents | International: El Palito refinery (Venezuela, 2020), MV Wakashio (Mauritius, 2020), Norilsk diesel spill (Russia, 2020), Deepwater Horizon (Gulf of Mexico, 2010) |
| India: Chennai (2023 and 2017), Sundarban (2014), ONGC Uran (2013), Mumbai (2010) | |
| Damage | Environmental: Harm to fish, birds, and mammals; habitat contamination; Fisheries: Reduced fish populations, damaged fishing gear; Tourism: Decline due to polluted beaches; Health: Toxic exposure causing respiratory problems, and skin irritation. |
| International Efforts for Oil Spill Management | MARPOL (1973): International Maritime Organisation’s convention to prevent pollution from ships (India is a signatory); Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Cooperation Convention (1990): Framework for international cooperation and mutual assistance in oil spill response (India is a signatory) |
| Indian Efforts for Oil Spill Management | National Oil Spill Disaster Contingency Plan (NOS-DCP): Managed by the Indian Coast Guard, it ensures effective spillage reporting, prompt response, public health protection, and use of science and technology; Merchant Shipping Act, 1958: Grants the government authority to enforce compliance with shipping regulations to prevent oil spills. |
| Control Measures for Oil Spills | Bioremediation: Using microorganisms to remove toxins (e.g., TERI’s Oil Zapper bacteria). Oil Booms: Floating barriers to contain spills. Dispersants: Chemicals sprayed to aid natural oil breakdown. |
