NGT directs inspection of sites remediated after Ennore oil spill

The agencies involved in clean-up and remediation stated that the process has been completed for all the 20 sites. Justice Dr P Jyothimani, on April 26, said, “It is stated that all the sites suited for remediation process have been covered. Both the remediation and clean-up have been completed. We direct the MOEF along with TNPCB to inspect the spots and file a report if the remediation and clean-up have been done in a proper manner or if any other procedure needs to be followed.” 

During the hearing, points were raised on the treatment of sludge, quantum of spillage and causes behind the accident. Justice Jyothimani said, “Out of 200-300 MT of oil, which is stated to have been recovered in sludge form, the question is whether the sludge thus recovered is being kept in an environmentally friendly manner. It is stated that an FIR is lodged with Minjur Police Station and the DG Shipping too has constituted a committee to enquire into the cause of the accident. The report is submitted to DG Shipping, which will take appropriate action within three weeks and file a status report to this tribunal. Once the FIR is lodged, the government shall take steps to see that proper investigation is carried out.” 

The next hearing is scheduled for July 6. In a report filed on Wednesday, the Directorate General of Shipping, revealed that MT Dawn Kanchipuram was “having bunkers (fuel) of 584.13 MT of heavy fuel oil, 66 MT of diesel oil and 16.2 KL of Lub Oil.”