PHUKET, THAILAND – Nearly a month after the sinking of the freighter Sealloyd Arc, crews on Koh Racha Yai were still battling oil and tar residues along beaches and rocky shores. More than 30 navy and environment officers collected remaining tar balls as the ministry and other agencies closely monitored the situation.
Freighter sank on 7 February – Oil reached the shore
The cargo ship Sealloyd Arc sank on 7 February off the southern tourist province of Phuket, after which an oil sheen initially spread across the sea. Wind and waves later carried parts of the pollution to the coasts of Koh Racha Yai, about 20 kilometres south of Prompthep Cape.
Authorities said the spill had moved from open water to sensitive coastal zones, prompting an extended cleanup. Efforts focused on areas where contamination had visibly accumulated.
Operations on Koh Racha Yai – Tar balls on rocks
On Koh Racha Yai, more than 30 workers were currently deployed to remove remaining tar balls and residues along beaches and rocky sections, according to officials. Sections where oil mixed with sand and adhered to rocky surfaces were particularly affected, making cleaning significantly more difficult.
Teams concentrated on physically collecting the sticky deposits by hand and with tools along the shoreline. Officials indicated that some areas would require repeated passes due to new residues being washed ashore.
Affected areas – Koh He also reports residues
Residues from the pollution were found not only on Koh Racha Yai but also on Koh He, known to tourists as Coral Island. The island group is a popular destination for day trips, so authorities were tracking developments with a special focus on heavily used swimming and snorkelling sites.
Officials noted that any visible oil or tar near these spots could affect visitor activity. They were also assessing whether the contamination risked longer-term impacts on the islands’ appeal.
Minister orders close monitoring
Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin said he had ordered close observation and continuous assessment of the situation to prevent long-term damage to marine and coastal resources.
“I have instructed that the situation be monitored closely and assessed on an ongoing basis in order to prevent long-term damage to marine and coastal resources.”
said Suchart Chomklin, Natural Resources and Environment Minister.
In parallel, the ministry underlined the need to respond immediately to any new signs of further contamination.
“It is essential that we are able to react at once if there are new indications of additional pollution.”
said Suchart Chomklin, Natural Resources and Environment Minister, conveying the ministry’s position.
Water quality and corals in focus for authorities
The Department of Marine and Coastal Resources worked with the Pollution Control Department and other agencies to test sea water quality and assess possible impacts on ecosystems. The focus was on coral reefs and key tourism zones, as even small residues could harm sensitive habitats and disrupt swimming activities.
Officials were taking samples and inspecting underwater areas near the affected islands. Their assessments were intended to guide any further cleanup or protective measures.
All-clear at Rawai, Ya Nui and Nai Harn – Vigilance remains
During recent inspections at Rawai, Ya Nui and Nai Harn beaches, authorities reported no further spread of oil. Nevertheless, lifeguards and local tourism operators were asked to remain alert and report any irregularities immediately.
Officials stressed that early reporting of new sightings would be critical to prevent wider contamination. They maintained that, despite the all-clear, the situation still required careful observation along Phuket’s southern coast.