Authorities in Thailand are trying to contain an oil slick that has already damaged a stretch of coast in Rayong before it reaches the western shore of famous island Koh Samet.
Natural Resources and Environment Minister Varawut Silpa-archa said on Sunday multiple agencies were deploying teams to try to contain the oil slick as it drifted towards Ao Phrao, a small bay on the holiday island’s western shore.
“If the oil reached inside this area it could impact the beach and cause heavy damage to the shallow water corals,” Mr Varawut said.
Koh Samet is part of the Khao Laem Ya-Koh Samet National Park.
The Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department said on Sunday half of Mae Rampheung beach in Muang district was still tainted by the oil that leaked from an underwater pipepine.
A thin layer of oil was deposited along six kilometres of the shoreline from the Fisheries Department’s Fisheries Research Centre to Khao Laem Ya, it added.
The area forms part of the 12 kilometres-long area of Mae Rampheung that was declared a disaster area by the province on Saturday.
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https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2255931/samet-sos-fight-to-keep-oil-slick-at-bay