Authorities in the Eastern Cape are on high alert following an oil spill in Algoa Bay on Saturday.
The incident occurred during offshore bunkering operations at the Port of Nqura.
Up to 400 litres of fuel from the receiving vessel MV Chrysanthi, which is registered in Liberia, was spilled into the sea due to an overflow during a fuel transfer.
Spokesperson for the Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries, Albi Modise says the incident does not currently require intervention from the national authorities.
"Local resources are sufficient, but the department will provide assistance if the incident escalates and requires it.”
The weather conditions in the area have been hindering operations, including a wildlife assessment that needs to be done.
"The oil is not expected to reach the coast and is currently moving in an offshore direction", says Modise.
"Transnet National Ports Authority, South African National Parks, the South African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Bird and other environmental bodies have been notified and are monitoring the situation along with our department.
"A contingency plan is in place for Algoa Bay and the department will activate it should it be determined that oil is likely to wash ashore."
