Seli 1 off Table View
Pretoria – The navy says it has completed the job of preparing for the removal of the wreck of the Turkish vessel Seli 1 on Cape Town’s Table View coastline.
The joint task team monitoring the operation said that while the wreck was still visible its structure had been significantly reduced.
The Seli 1, which was abandoned by its owners in 2009, has caused problems on the beach at Bloubergstrand.
The Operational Diving Team in conjunction with the Department of Transport will conduct further assessments of the wreck to assist the task team in determining if the objectives of the operation have been met and whether any further work is required.
The team reported that minimal quantities of oil released from the wreck were promptly contained and dealt with. In addition, marine life was largely unaffected by the operation. Clean-up contingency measures will remain in place.
“Given that the wreck has been substantially weakened, it constitutes a danger and is therefore unsafe to the public. The public is required to remain clear of the wreck at all times”.
The public will be kept updated of further developments.
The task team has thanked the residents of Table View and the general public for their cooperation during the operation. –SAnews.gov.za
photo credit: Bruce Sutherland
