The island of Gran Canaria has declared a state of emergency due to an oil spillage that has contaminated the waters off its coast. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of this morning (Thursday), involved the release of three tons of diesel from the Virgen del Pino dock at the Port of La Luz in Las Palmas, resulting in a large oil slick that has now reached the shores of the capital and the town of Telde.
The Cabildo activated the emergency protocol at 1:00pm following the detection of the spill as the oil slick has already reached Bocabarranco beach and continues to move towards the southeast, threatening coastal ecosystems.
The authorities have closed the beaches of San Borondón and Palos in Telde as a precautionary measure. Efforts are now focused on containing the spill and preventing further damage, particularly to the natural areas along the coast of the island.
In response to the incident, the Environmental Minister for Gran Canaria, Raúl García Brink, took part in a crisis coordination meeting with CECOES alongside officials from Las Palmas, Telde, and other affected municipalities.
Brink emphasised the Cabildo's commitment to providing the necessary resources to tackle the spill. “We are fully prepared to collaborate and mobilise all available means to resolve this situation as quickly as possible,” he stated.
The spill, which now covers an area of 2.5 kilometres long and 400 metres wide, is advancing at a rate of 0.5 nautical miles per hour. Officials warn that currents in the area could accelerate its movement toward the southeast, threatening vulnerable natural reserves like Jinámar, Tufia, and Punta de la Sal.
David Godoy, technical director of the island’s Special Conservation Zone (ZEC) in Jinámar, confirmed that the slick is now approaching the Jinámar beach, which is a protected area. He also observed ongoing efforts by the Maritime Rescue Service to disperse and evaporate the oil slick before it causes further harm.
There is an additional concern regarding the Jinámar desalination plant, which could be impacted if the oil reaches its intake points. Antonio Morales, the President of Gran Canaria, highlighted the gravity of the situation, stating, “Our primary concern is the potential contamination of water production facilities. The Cabildo will closely monitor the situation and take all necessary steps to mitigate the damage.”
The authorities remain on high alert, working around the clock to contain the spill and prevent further environmental degradation, while the public is advised to avoid the affected areas until the situation is under control.
