29-07-2025
Dhofar authorities respond swiftly to Salalah oil spill
Salalah – Authorities in Dhofar Governorate continue intensive efforts to address the oil pollution recently detected along sections of the coastline from Khor Salalah to Awqad Beach near Hilton Hotel, and parts of Raysut Beach. Officials confirmed that no new leaks have been recorded, and the affected areas are under active monitoring and cleanup.
Specialized teams from the General Directorate of Environment, in coordination with Dhofar Municipality, the Royal Oman Police, and other agencies, are leading operations under the National Oil Pollution Response Plan. Cleanup efforts include manual and mechanical removal of pollutants, supported by environmental specialists and companies.
Precautionary measures, such as beach access closures, were implemented to ensure public safety and to facilitate smooth field operations.
Eng. Zahran bin Ahmed Al-Abdelsalam, Acting Director General of the Environment Directorate in Dhofar, confirmed that the prompt intervention helped contain the pollution and limit environmental damage. He stressed that beyond surface-level cleaning, efforts are focused on protecting marine ecosystems, conducting detailed surveys, and using targeted cleanup technologies for long-term impact mitigation.
Mamdouh bin Salem Al Marhoon, Director of the Environmental Emergency Center, stated that the National Oil Pollution Control Plan (Level II) was activated immediately, enabling rapid mobilization and inter-agency coordination. Investigations are ongoing, with cooperation from international and regional organizations, to trace the source of the spill and initiate legal measures.
