A major environmental incident occurred in Pančevo this week, as euro-diesel from the Pančevo Oil Refinery spilled into the Danube River. Authorities are currently investigating the extent of the contamination.
According to the Provincial Environmental Protection Inspectorate, the spill happened early in the morning two days ago, around 7:00 AM, at the refinery’s port. The euro-diesel leaked from a barge belonging to the company Naftahem, based in Sremska Mitrovica.
Following an order from the Basic Public Prosecutor’s Office in Pančevo, a coordinated response was launched involving the Water Inspectorate, the National Environmental Inspectorate, the Navigation Safety Inspectorate, and the police.
Initial findings confirmed that approximately 82 cubic meters of euro-diesel had leaked into the river. Fortunately, the oil was largely contained by a protective barrier set up around the barge, preventing more extensive spread.
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To assess the environmental impact, the Pančevo Public Health Institute will conduct water sampling in the immediate vicinity of the barge and downstream along the Danube.
Preliminary reports suggest that the spill was likely caused by crew negligence aboard the barge. Authorities emphasized that a full investigation is underway to determine all the circumstances surrounding the incident.
In a statement, the Provincial Secretariat for Urbanism and Environmental Protection noted that joint efforts between provincial and national inspectors, as well as law enforcement, are ongoing to address the situation and prevent further environmental damage.
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Source: Telegraf, Foto: ATA Images