Oroklini beach has been cleaned up following an engine oil spill that contaminated the shoreline, as confirmed by local authorities. The incident was reported late Thursday evening, prompting a swift response from the Department of Fisheries and Marine Research.
The maritime service immediately deployed floating barriers and absorbent materials to tackle the spill, which was identified as bilge water containing a mixture of engine oil and diesel fuel. Marina Argyrou, director of the Department of Fisheries, stated that officials were alerted to the pollution incident at Larnaca port late at night.
“At first light, maritime service officials arrived at Larnaca port and, using floating barriers and absorbents, managed to clean the pollution,” Argyrou explained. She clarified that the contamination originated within Larnaca port, where the Cyprus Ports Authority oversees management and pollution investigations.
Some of the oil residue was reported to have washed onto Oroklini beach. In response, the Oroklini Municipal District of Larnaca Municipality was notified to initiate cleanup operations. Neofytos Fakontis, the deputy mayor of Oroklini, confirmed that small quantities of engine oil had affected the community coastline.
Fakontis described the situation as manageable, noting that some beachgoers continued to swim while cleanup efforts were underway. “The Department of Fisheries was notified as the competent authority and took charge of the matter,” he stated. He further highlighted that much of the oil had evaporated, and it was anticipated that the remaining small quantity would also dissipate soon.
As the cleanup operation progressed, the community remained hopeful for a quick resolution. Local authorities continue to monitor the situation, ensuring that Oroklini beach remains a safe and welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike.