keep well clear of the grounded bulk carrier in the area of Table View beach

The Seli 1 Joint Operations Committee is appealing to members of the public

10 September 2009

The Seli 1 Joint Operations Committee is appealing to members of the Public, specifically those undertaking recreational activities such as boating, kite surfing, canoeing/paddle skiing, to keep well clear of the grounded bulk carrier in the area of Table View beach as the fuel removal operation gets underway.

This is for their safety as well as for the safety of the salvage team and to prevent any disruption to the operation. In addition, helicopters and other airborne craft such as micro lights over flying the casualty may disrupt the helicopter operations of the salvage team, delaying progress and posing a risk to safety. Cooperation in this regard is appreciated as all parties work together to manage the situation effectively.

Yesterday, good progress was made onboard the casualty in preparation for the fuel removal operation, which began in the afternoon with the pumping of fuel located in low lying double bottom tanks to tanks located higher up in the vessel. This is a proactive precautionary measure and precedes the removal of this fuel from the Seli 1.

Some 660 tonnes of fuel has been identified for removal via ship to ship transfer following the findings of a bathymetric survey conducted yesterday that revealed water depth surrounding the Seli 1 was sufficient for a launch vessel to come alongside the casualty for the purpose of receiving fuel, once removal from the vessel begins. The first of these vessels is expected on site by the end of the day today. The transfer of fuel to the receiving launch is contingent on good weather and sea conditions.

The removal of the casualty's fuel is the highest priority given the damage sustained by the vessel when she ran aground. Relevant authorities have activated contingency plans so as to minimise impact should there be a spill. Surveys to determine the status of the Seli 1's structural integrity are ongoing whilst the fuel removal operation proceeds and the Department of Environmental Affairs' pollution patrol aircraft Kuswag nine continues to over fly the casualty, reporting no oil in the vicinity.

Members of the public are kindly requested to limit their land based sightseeing activities to non-demarcated areas and to be cognisant of the fact that the dunes adjacent to the beach are environmentally sensitive. Relevant authorities will be on hand to assist in this regard and have demarcated viewing areas.

The operation is being managed by a Joint Operations Committee involving all responsible parties. The committee is chaired by Captain Dave Colly of the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) and includes representatives from SAMSA, Department of Environmental Affairs, SMIT Salvage, Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB), City of Cape Town Disaster Management, Robben Island Museum, Transnet National Ports Authority, amongst others.

For further information kindly contact:

Dave Colly
Tel: 021 421 6170

Carol Moses
Cell: 082 829 3917
E-mail: cmoses@deat.gov.za

Coen Birkenstock
Tel: 021 449 2389
Cell: 083 452 6698

Steve van Rensburg
Cell: 084 909 4137

Dennis Cruywagen
Cell: 082 628 4902

Clare Gomes
Tel: 021 507 5777
Cell: 082 909 2025

Issued by: Department of Environmental Affairs
10 September 2009
Source: Department of Environmental Affairs (http://www.deat.gov.za/)