PHUKET, THAILAND – Three weeks after the sinking of the freighter SEALLOYD ARC, Thailand’s Pollution Control Department reported that five Phuket beaches remained free of oil in sand and water.
Command “War Room” Directs Daily Response
The Third Naval Area had set up a “War Room” the day after the 7 February accident to coordinate the response. Rear Admiral Veerudom Muangjeen and Phuket Governor Nirat Phongsitthithavorn had since directed daily operations focused on marine safety, oil defense, and the salvage of the vessel. Navy units and the provincial administration worked closely together, while PCD Director-General Surin Worakitthamrong oversaw coastal monitoring as divers and specialist ships secured the wreck of the Panama-flagged freighter.
Oil Movement Tracked by Specialized Software
Conditions at the wreck site remained tense as experts tracked the spread of the oil slick using OILMAP software. They monitored how the slick shifted southwest in the mornings and northwest by late afternoon, covering nearly 7.6 nautical miles on Sunday. Despite this movement, the oil had not reached the shoreline, with prevailing currents still pushing it away from land.
Five Phuket Beaches Pass Water Quality Tests
For the third time, the PCD sent inspectors to Rawai, Nai Harn, Kata Noi, Kata Yai and Karon beaches. Tests showed no oil contamination in either sand or seawater, and water quality remained in coastal class 4, meaning swimming and water sports were considered safe.
“Swimming and water activities remain safe under coastal class 4 water conditions.”
said Surin Worakitthamrong, Director-General of the PCD.
Clean Beaches, But Risk Remains Offshore
The wreck still lay on the seabed and the oil continued to drift at sea, leaving the long-term outlook uncertain. How long the beaches would stay clean depended on weather patterns and ocean currents. A shift in the wind could rapidly change the situation and put the “War Room” to its toughest test yet.
Authorities Stay on Alert for Sudden Change
Officials remained ready to react if the slick turned toward the coast.
“A change in wind or current could quickly alter the situation for Phuket’s beaches.”
said Veerudom Muangjeen, Rear Admiral of the Third Naval Area. The coordinated effort between the navy, provincial authorities and environmental agencies was set to continue as long as oil remained in the water.
Tourism Relieved but Cautious
Tourism operators welcomed the clean test results at the five popular beaches around Phuket.
“As long as the water stays clear of oil, tourists can enjoy Phuket’s main beaches without concern.”
said Nirat Phongsitthithavorn, Governor of Phuket. However, authorities emphasized that the situation could change quickly if weather or currents shifted.
Monitoring to Continue Until Wreck Is Secured
Specialist vessels and divers continued working to stabilize the sunken SEALLOYD ARC and reduce the risk of further leakage.
“We will keep monitoring both the wreck and the shoreline until we are certain the remaining oil no longer threatens Phuket’s coast.”
said Surin Worakitthamrong, Director-General of the PCD. Until then, the War Room structure ensured that marine safety, oil defense and salvage efforts remained tightly coordinated.