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File photo. Sharjah has reopened its beaches after a temporary closure over a tanker oil spill. Authorities say the coast and marine environment are safe.
WAM
Sharjah has reopened its beaches after closing them over an oil spill from a marine tanker, Khaleej Times reported. The emirate announced the move on Thursday. Authorities said the pollution has been contained and the beaches are safe for the public.
Why did Sharjah close its beaches?
Sharjah closed its beaches as a precaution to stop pollution from a tanker oil spill reaching the shore. Al Hamriyah Beach shut first on October 23. The emirate then closed all its beaches on October 28. They have now reopened to the public.
Are Sharjah beaches safe now?
Authorities said marine pollution has been contained and the effects of the spill have been remedied. Officials completed a full assessment and monitoring of the area. They confirmed it is free of any effects that could harm public health or the marine environment.
The public can now visit the beaches and enjoy marine activities safely. Monitoring and surveillance will continue around the clock to protect the safety and sustainability of the marine environment.
Authorities urged residents to rely on official channels for information. They asked people to avoid spreading rumors or unreliable details. They also thanked the community for its cooperation during the response and remediation period.
What measures did Sharjah take during the closure?
The government said the closure was meant to keep marine pollution from reaching the shore. Specialized teams and relevant authorities took measures to protect the beaches and stop the pollution from reaching them, according to the statement.
Have other emirates reopened beaches after the oil spill?
Ras Al Khaimah reopened seven beaches on November 11. These include public beaches and those at major resorts. The emirate had closed all its beaches last month.
What caused the oil spill that closed Sharjah beaches?
The UAE’s Ministry of Climate Change and Environment confirmed an oil spill from a tanker off the coast of Umm Al Quwain on October 23. The incident was linked to a fuel-like smell reported by residents across several emirates.
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