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Tuesday, February 11, 2025

The ship sank near a coral reef in Egypt. Sensitive ecosystem at risk

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The VSG Glory ship sank near a coral reef in the Red Sea on Tuesday. The unit was damaged at the end of November and there was an oil leak. The Egyptian government assures that most of the harmful substances have been contained, but there is a risk that their remains could poison sensitive reefs.

The Comorian-flagged VSG Glory was damaged on November 22 near the city of Al-Qusayr in Egypt. Due to engine problems and difficult weather conditions, she was pushed aground, and a sharp coral reef tore the ship's skin. The engine room flooded and diesel fuel began to leak from the damaged hull. On Monday evening, due to strong winds, the ship tilted and – after several unsuccessful attempts to raise it – sank on Tuesday.

Environmental hazard

The sinking of the ship creates the risk of an ecological disaster. The unit transported 4,000. tons of bran, 70 tons of diesel oil and 50 tons of solar panels with the necessary equipment.

Egyptian authorities reported that most of the oil carried by the ship and from the waters around it had been removed before the sinking – the fuel slick was surrounded by oil-absorbing barriers, and the contaminated water was pumped out and secured. However, fuel and electronics residues pose a threat to sensitive coral reefs.

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“We hope that our efforts will be successful in maintaining the ecological balance of the area and protecting the marine life that is an integral part of the Red Sea ecosystem,” said Jasmine Fouad, responsible for environmental protection in the Egyptian government.

Main photo source: The sea in Arabic@facebook.com

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