Oil platform runs aground off northern Tunisian coast
An offshore platform has run aground on Tunisia’s northern coastline after breaking free of its tow vessel during transit from Scotland to Turkey, maritime authorities confirmed.
The structure is currently stranded on Al-Huishat beach, approximately 20 kilometers west of Bizerte, Tunisia’s northernmost port city, according to Agence France-Presse.
Maritime officials report the incident occurred when towing cables parted during adverse weather conditions, leaving the platform adrift before it grounded on the beach.
A Tunisian Maritime Guard spokesperson confirmed to local media that no environmental damage has been reported. However, efforts to refloat the platform have been suspended due to continuing rough seas in the area.
The incident occurred along a major maritime transit route connecting European and Mediterranean waters. Bizerte, which hosts significant maritime infrastructure, frequently sees heavy vessel traffic through its adjacent waters.
Maritime authorities are maintaining a watch on the grounded platform while awaiting improved weather conditions to attempt recovery operations.
The timeline for refloating and resuming the platform’s journey to Turkey remains dependent on sea conditions.
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