Phuket: Bunker oil from a sunken Panamanian-flagged cargo ship has reached the shores of Koh He (Coral Island), threatening one of Phuket's premier snorkeling destinations. Despite the vessel sinking nearly three miles off Laem Phromthep 19 days ago, a specialized technical team from the ship's owner only arrived yesterday to begin sealing the leaks.

According to Thai News Agency, the delayed response, coupled with shifting winds, has pushed semi-solid oil clumps and sludge onto pristine beaches. While the island remains open to the roughly 1,000 daily visitors, many tourists inadvertently stepped on or sat on the bunker oil, leaving stains on their feet, bodies, and clothing.

Local business operators expressed grave concern that the spill could damage traveler sentiment and Phuket's long-term tourism image. Cleanup efforts by the Royal Thai Navy and the Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Center (Thai-MECC) are underway, though the use of containment booms has been restricted by an equipment shortage.

Authorities are closely monitoring weather patterns as further shifts could push the spill toward major hubs such as Rawai and Nai Harn beaches. Despite the environmental threat, officials have yet to formally declare a disaster zone or close the affected shorelines.