Business
OVERTURNED VESSELOFF COVE INDUSTRIAL PARK TOBAGO
The Tobago Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) received reports of an overturned vessel in the vicinity of the waters off the coast off Cove Eco Industrial and Business Park Tobago. North Post Radio did not receive distress calls from the vessel. The Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard (TTCG) is actively investigating the incident.
On Wednesday, February 7th, 2024, the Tobago Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) received reports of an overturned vessel in the vicinity of the waters off the coast off Cove Eco Industrial and Business Park Tobago. North Post Radio did not receive distress calls from the vessel. The Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard (TTCG) is actively investigating the incident.
In response to the situation, TEMA, in collaboration with the Environmental Management Authority (EMA), conducted a Preliminary Assessment along the coastline. Oil from the vessel has reached the shoreline, leading to the collection of samples for fingerprinting. These samples will be sent to the Institute of Marine Affairs to determine the origin of the oil.
To address the environmental impact, TEMA is coordinating efforts with key stakeholders, including the
Environmental Management Authority, Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard, the Department of the Environment, Department of Marine Resources and Fisheries, the Ministry of Energy, Woodside Energy, and other organizations. The collective goal is to effectively contain the discharge of oil in the affected area and initiate cleanup procedures, ensuring the safety of the surrounding communities.
Additionally, TEMA has received information of suspected oil deposits off the coast of Roxborough and
Belle Garden. Samples will be collected to determine the source of the deposits.
For safety reasons, fisherfolk and beach goers are strongly advised to stay clear of the area extending from Rockly Bay to Canoe Bay.
TEMA remains vigilant, monitoring the situation closely, and will provide regular updates as the response efforts progress.
