Oil Spill Pollutes Rio Cobre River in Bog Walk Area

The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) and the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) issued an advice to the public Friday night (June 4), about an oil spill in the Rio Cobre River and warning against swimming in the Flat Bridge area.

The Rio Cobre River, St. Catherine.

ODPEM/NEPA advised the public that a trailer carrying a 40-foot container overturned in the Rio Cobre River while going through the Bog Walk Gorge, Friday morning. The location is 1.2 km after passing the Flat Bridge going towards Bog Walk in St Catherine.
“Upon investigation by ODPEM, the trailer had a minor engine oil spill from the head of the truck. The Agencies wish to advise the public not to swim in that section of the Rio Cobre for at least 48 hours. Persons exposed to the water may have mild irritation to the eyes and skin. The water should not be used for drinking, bathing or washing,” the release said.
“The National Irrigation Commission has turned off the water pump at Dam Head to prevent any contamination of the dam. NEPA anticipates minor damage to the plant and animal life in the affected water. However, water hyacinths may be impacted negatively. Water hyacinths are invasive species which hinder the flow of the river,” the release added.
ODPEM and NEPA say they will continue to monitor the area.Persons can contact Horace Glaze, at ODPEM for further information at 9069674-5 or 7549077-8.