Burgas bans tanker operations in coastal waters

Official representatives of the local administration in Burgas initiated large-scale restrictive actions related to maritime traffic in the bay area. At an extraordinary meeting led by Mayor Dimitar Nikolov, critical issues regarding the ecological situation and potential risks from oil operations were discussed.

Forum participants, including regional governor Vladimir Krumov and experts from various institutions, reached a consensus on introducing drastic restrictive measures. The specific decision provides for creating a 35-kilometer prohibited zone where tanker activities will be strictly regulated.

The main reason for the actions are numerous reports from the local population about intensive smells of oil products. Experts link the phenomenon to Ship to Ship maneuvers currently performed approximately 35 kilometers from the coastline.

According to the received analyses, the Lukoil Neftochim Burgas refinery is currently processing two different types of oil – light and heavy, which necessitates specific logistical solutions. High summer temperatures further complicate the situation by causing more intensive evaporation of light oil fractions.

The new regulations introduce categorical restrictions for all tankers, regardless of their cargo or final destination. Ships will be forced to wait in a designated area until they receive official permission to dock from port operators.

Control over the introduced measures will be carried out by Maritime Administration, with captains obliged to follow strict procedures during maneuvering. When leaving the zone, they must reduce pressure in the tanks to the minimum permissible levels that guarantee safety.

The introduced restrictions take effect immediately, with the goal of maximum protection of the marine ecosystem and the interests of the local population.