On February 7, authorities in Thailand reported that the cargo ship 'Sealloyd Arc' sank while en route to Chattogram, Bangladesh, dumping approximately 1,700 liters of oil into the ocean. The vessel, sailing under a Panama flag, sank near the shores of Phuket, and local legislator Chalermpong Saengdee informed AFP that rising tides began carrying the thickened oil remnants to popular tourist spots, including the beach of Ja Nui and several smaller islands in the province.

The oil spill has already contaminated the renowned Banana Beach on Koh Hey, which attracts tourists with its clear turquoise waters, and officials warn that it is likely to spread further. This predicament raises significant concerns as the incident occurred two weeks ago, yet the situation continues to deteriorate, posing a potential threat to marine wildlife and coastal reefs. Authorities are growing increasingly alarmed at the situation and its implications for both the environment and local tourism.

The sunken ship rests approximately 60 meters underwater, complicating recovery efforts and making it challenging for divers to stop the continued leak. There are fears that this incident could have lasting impacts on Thailand’s tourism and economy, both vital pillars of the nation's revenue. Local authorities are urged to take immediate action to contain the spill and mitigate its effects on the region's ecology and economy, highlighting the urgency of the situation.