Diesel has spilled into the Kanaalplas, a lake near to the Zilvermeer, a beauty spot at Mol in Antwerp Province. The Mayor of Mol Wim Caeyers (Christian democrat) told VRT News that it is still unclear how much damage has been done to the environment. However, “It is always serious when oil spills into the water”. The is a stench of diesel in the area around the spill.
The hold of vessel was loaded with sand from Sibelco in Mol. No one was on board the barge when it sank. However, as the barge has a diesel generator, some diesel leaked into the lake.
The emergency services were at the scene quickly and did their best to contain the spill.
“The priority was to ensure that the oil did not drift into the Dessel-Kwaadmechelen Canal. That is why our first task was to set up a dam between the lake and the canal. There are also diesel tanks on board the ship which are, as far as we know, intact. A specialist firm is expected to arrive on site shortly to secure them underwater”, Mr Caeyers explained.
What caused the barged to sink is still unclear. The clean-up operation will continue to today.