The Port of Antwerp-Bruges has reopened the terminals affected by the oil spill in the Deurganckdok. According to the port's update on 16 April, the North Sea Terminal and Europa Terminal are fully cleared for use. Terminals in the Deurganckdok are also operational; however, quay walls and ships are still being cleaned on part of the western side. For inland waterway transport, inland vessels are still being washed at the Galgenschoor jetty.
The incident occurred on 10 April during a bunkering operation at the Deurganck Dock. According to the port statement the source was stopped, but the pollution spread overnight to the Scheldt River, affecting shipping traffic, terminals, and several locks. In the following days, restrictions were gradually lifted and clean-up operations continued across all terminals, vessels, and locks.
Port officials stated that the Scheldt River had previously been reopened to shipping traffic. Clean-up teams used acoustic booms, absorbent barriers, and mechanical collection equipment to limit the spread of the oil. The incident enters history as one of the most serious environmental crises in recent years at Europe's second-largest container port. Officials announced that safety procedures used in bunker operations will be reviewed and that the investigation continues to determine responsibility.
Key Takeaways:
1. The Port of Antwerp-Bruges reopened terminals after the Deurganckdok oil spill.
2. North Sea Terminal and Europa Terminal are fully cleared for use; clean-up continues on the Deurganckdok western side.
3. The spill occurred on 10 April during a bunkering operation.
4. The pollution spread overnight to the Scheldt River, affecting shipping traffic and locks.
5. Port officials announced that safety procedures in bunker operations will be reviewed.
