Musandam: Acting in cooperation with OQ Exploration and Production Company (OQEP), the Environment Authority carried out a national oil pollution control exercise in the Governorate of Musandam.

According to Oman News Agency, the drill, codenamed Nawras 25, was part of national efforts to enhance readiness and effective response to oil spills. It saw the participation of government departments concerned, military units, and private establishments. Nawras 25 aimed to activate the principle of unified command and control when addressing marine environment incidents, ensure the readiness of the systems, and assess the efficiency of the national response.

The exercise simulated a theoretical Level II marine oil spill that presumably occurred in the vicinity of Musandam Gas Processing Plant, owned by OQ Exploration and Production Company. It was based on the assumption that the spill was caused by a leak from a floating crude oil pipeline.

During the exercise, field operations were carried out to contain the oil slick using barriers and professional equipment. The drill included marine reconnaissance operations and monitoring field coordination.

The importance of the exercise stems from Musandam Governorate’s strategic location at the entrance to the Strait of Hormuz. Musandam acts as a priority area in national emergency plans because of its environmental resources, as well as maritime, tourism, and economic activities that require high levels of protection and preparedness.