Bapco Refining Makes Significant Progress in Resolving Oil Tank Leak Incident

Bahrain Petroleum Company (Bapco) has announced significant progress in resolving the recent oil tank leak incident at its Sitra refinery. Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, Bapco Refining President, provided an update on the latest developments, assuring the public that the situation is now under control.

The incident, caused by exceptional rainfall in Bahrain, led to a leak of naphtha gas from one of the oil tanks due to a technical malfunction. Jawahery commended the swift response and collaboration among various entities, including the Ministry of Interior, Public Security, Civil Defense, and the Supreme Council for Environment, which averted a potential fire and minimized environmental impact.

Bapco Refining has successfully lowered the damaged floating roof of the affected tank to the bottom, marking an essential step in the repair process. Additionally, a substantial reduction in naphtha product volume has been achieved by transferring it to another tank. Specialists are now focused on stabilizing the damaged floating roof to prevent any future incidents.

Why this matters: The successful resolution of the oil tank leak incident at Bapco's Sitra refinery is vital for ensuring the safety of the local community and minimizing environmental damage. The collaborative efforts of Bapco and government agencies demonstrate their commitment to swift action and transparent communication in handling such critical situations.

On April 24, 2024, Bapco Refining announced that the affected tank has been successfully and gradually emptied, and the state of emergency at the company is now over, with operations back to normal. "A full comprehensive evaluation of the affected tank has begun, along with comprehensive maintenance work as per international standards and regulations," stated a Bapco spokesperson. The company also noted that Um Al Saad Avenue, which was closed following the incident, has been reopened in cooperation with relevant authorities.

Key Takeaways

• Bapco resolves oil tank leak incident at Sitra refinery in Bahrain.
• Leak caused by technical malfunction due to heavy rainfall, now under control.
• Bapco lowered damaged floating roof, reduced naphtha product volume, stabilizing tank.
• Collaborative efforts of Bapco and government agencies averted fire, minimized impact.
• Affected tank emptied, operations back to normal, Um Al Saad Avenue reopened.