Oil disaster in Mauritius - 24th August 2020

A Japanese cargo vessel has crashed and broken apart in the waters off Mauritius. Thousands of tonnes of oil have poured into the sea and the turquoise waters have turned black. Experts are warning that the damage will be enormous and long-lasting.

Mauritius is an island in the Indian Ocean, off the south-east coast of Africa. Tourists visit to see its diverse wildlife, spectacular coral reefs and beautiful coastline.

The ship, MV Wakashio, crashed near the Blue Bay Marine Park in late July, and soon began spilling oil from its tanks. Satellite images show the oil stretching between mainland Mauritius and a nearby island. A huge clean up operation has begun.

Oil spills are seriously damaging the surrounding environment. They are extremely challenging to clean up and harm local wildlife for years afterwards.

Over 4,000 tonnes of fuel have now spilled from the ship into the sea. However, it is the location of the oil slick that makes this spill so disastrous for the environment. Mauritius is home to many rare and endangered animals and plants that aren't found anywhere else in the world. Its coral reefs contain lots of unique species and also protect the coastline from storms. Marine biologists are concerned that the oil slick could damage or kill these reefs.

Technical advisers rushed to the area after the Mauritian prime minister sent out a call for help. Volunteers have been rescuing baby tortoises and rare plants from the affected area.

Experts report that less than 10% of the lost oil is recovered in this kind of disaster. Mauritius has demanded compensation for the spill. Japanese company Nagashiki Shipping has promised to respond to Mauritius' requests. However, it is unclear how much compensation they are willing to pay.