Duqm traffic unaffected by capsized tanker incident – sources

Search and rescue efforts are underway to locate the missing crew members of an oil tanker that capsized off the coast of Duqm in Oman, according to Oman’s Maritime Security Centre.

PHOTO: A cruise ship in the harbour of Muscat in Oman. Getty Images

The Comoros-flagged tanker Prestige Falcon was capsized 25 nautical miles southeast of Ras Madrakah in the Wilayat of Duqm.

Port operations and bunkering activities continue to run smoothly in Duqm as the incident occurred far away from the port’s parameters, two traders said. Vessel traffic is also unaffected, with no diversions currently in place.

A trader said that bunkering of some naval ships has been postponed because they have been deployed for rescue operations.

It is unclear what cargo the tanker had onboard when it capsized. Even if an oil spill happens, and necessary measures are taken to contain the spillage, it will have limited to no impact on Duqm’s vessel traffic, a source said.

Most vessels calling Duqm are for cargo operations or dry docking, which are already scheduled. Bunker-only calls are limited.

Lead times of 2-3 days are required to supply LSMGO in Duqm, another trader said.

By Nithin Chandran

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