Singapore: The Singapore Shipping Association (SSA) has issued a plea to the Indonesian Government to put an urgent stop to “the indiscriminate slash and burn method of land clearing in Sumatra” causing a blanket of haze which has plagued Singapore and much of Southeast Asia this week.
In an open letter issued this afternoon, the association expressed grave concerns on safe navigation through Straits of Malacca and Singapore.
Daniel Tan, executive director of SSA said, “The Straits of Malacca and Singapore are among the busiest and narrowest shipping lanes in the world. Reduced visibility in such heavy shipping traffic will definitely affect the safe navigation of ships in the Straits. The passage through the Straits is further complicated by the many smaller barter trading ships and also passenger ships in cross-Strait traffic.”
In addition to the environmental concern from the haze, of major concern to the association is the possibility of a maritime accident occurring due to the conditions, which could have a lasting impact on the marine environment.
Tan added, “In the event of any unfortunate accident, human lives and the marine environment will be at risk, especially if it involves a fully laden VLCC. The oil spillage from the tanker can have serious consequences not only on the marine life in the Straits but also affect the livelihood of fishermen and those who depend on the tourist industry.” [21/06/13]
