PMSA praises Cnergyico for prompt response to oil spill incident

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) has formally appreciated Cnergyico Pakistan Limited (CPL) for its prompt and effective response to an oil spill incident near Churna Island, acknowledging the company’s operational preparedness and deployment of specialised resources to protect the marine environment, it was learnt.

In an official communication dated October 14, 2026, the PMSA commended Cnergyico for its professional and timely response to the incident reported on June 30, 2026, near Churna Island, in the vicinity of the offshore Single Point Mooring (SPM) facilities of CPHGC and CPL.

According to the communication, the incident was reportedly caused by bilge discharge from an unidentified passing seagoing vessel and was promptly brought to the attention of SPM Control by the maritime security agency.

Following the report, Cnergyico swiftly mobilised its dedicated Oil Spill Response Team along with specialised response craft, equipment, oil dispersants and trained manpower to address the situation.

The PMSA noted that the mobilisation demonstrated a high degree of preparedness and operational readiness on the part of the company.

The response resources remained deployed for more than 24 hours, contributing significantly towards an effective response to the incident.

The agency particularly acknowledged that Cnergyico extended its assistance beyond its own area of operational responsibility by responding positively to a request from CPHGC for support in clearing the affected area.

For this purpose, the company deployed its available assets, specialised equipment and manpower, reflecting coordination and cooperation among operators of offshore energy infrastructure.

The PMSA observed that such cooperation demonstrated the spirit of mutual assistance and shared responsibility essential for protecting the marine environment.

In its appreciation letter, the agency commended the professionalism, dedication, teamwork and resourcefulness of Cnergyico’s Oil Spill Response Team, describing its contribution as valuable towards environmental protection, maritime safety and effective emergency response.

The incident has also highlighted the importance of maintaining adequate oil spill response capabilities at offshore petroleum installations, particularly in areas exposed to commercial shipping traffic and crude oil handling operations.

Cnergyico operates Single Point Mooring infrastructure for offshore crude oil handling, which forms an important component of the country’s petroleum supply chain.

The availability of dedicated response craft, trained personnel and specialised pollution-control equipment at such installations is considered essential for managing potential environmental emergencies and minimising risks to maritime operations.

The company’s decision to assist another operator beyond its own operational area also underscored the importance of resource-sharing arrangements and coordination among stakeholders involved in offshore petroleum operations.

Churna Island and its surrounding coastal waters are known for their marine biodiversity, making timely action against oil pollution particularly important for the protection of marine ecosystems and associated economic activities.

The incident further highlights the need for effective coordination between maritime security authorities, offshore energy operators and shipping stakeholders to strengthen Pakistan’s preparedness against marine pollution incidents.

The PMSA, while acknowledging Cnergyico’s contribution, expressed appreciation for the company’s commitment to maritime safety and environmental protection and looked forward to continued cooperation.

The official recognition underscores the role of private-sector petroleum companies in supporting national maritime authorities through the timely deployment of technical expertise, equipment and manpower during environmental emergencies.

The agency’s communication, however, did not disclose the volume of oil discharged or the estimated environmental impact of the incident.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026