The oil spill caused by a collision between a Netherlands-flagged dredging boat and a Singapore-flagged vessel at Pasir Panjang Terminal on June 14, 2024 has affected several coastal areas in Singapore. In a press conference, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu addressed the concerns of beach-front businesses impacted by the spill, noting that operations such as kayak rentals and sea-based activities remain suspended until the cleanup is complete.

With over 700 personnel engaged in the recovery, Minister for Transport Chee Hong Tat confirmed “good progress” in clearing bulk oil from beaches and the sea, with East Coast and Changi beaches free from oil slicks as of June 18. The second phase of recovery will involve specialized resources to clean difficult-to-reach areas and ensure no re-pollution occurs.

Despite the disruption, visitors are gradually returning to the beaches, with authorities ensuring public safety through air quality checks and water sample testing. Recovery efforts are expected to take three months in the more affected areas, while lighter-hit areas may reopen sooner.