King Salman Relief Center signs cooperation agreement with the UN to address fuel leakage from the sunken ship “Rubymar.”

The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center has signed a cooperation agreement with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to address urgent needs arising from the sinking of the “Rubymar” ship in the Red Sea. This initiative aims to secure essential equipment for the Ministry of Water and Environment, benefiting approximately 126,020 individuals.

Enhancing National Response Capabilities

Under the agreement, which was signed by Engineer Ahmed bin Ali Al-Bayez, the Assistant Supervisor General for Operations and Programs at the center, and Haoliang Xu, the Assistant Secretary-General and Deputy Administrator of UNDP, the focus will be on enhancing national capabilities. The partnership will develop a stockpile of equipment for responding to oil spills and the release of hazardous materials, along with personal protective gear.

Specialized Equipment and Technical Support

The agreement also includes the procurement of specialized equipment to manage oil leaks, ensuring the protection and cleanup of environmentally sensitive areas. Notably, the initiative will acquire an underwater remotely operated vehicle capable of diving to depths of 200 meters. Additionally, the project will provide both an international and a local expert to offer ongoing technical support in Yemen for one year. This support will also facilitate organized inspections of the “Rubymar” ship’s structure.

Background of the Incident

The “Rubymar” ship sank in February 2024 after an attack by Houthi militia, carrying a significant cargo of ammonia, oils, and other hazardous materials. This incident has raised serious environmental concerns, prompting immediate action to mitigate the potential impact on marine ecosystems and coastal communities.

This collaboration between the King Salman Humanitarian Aid Center and UNDP represents a critical step in addressing the environmental challenges posed by the “Rubymar” incident. By enhancing response capabilities and providing necessary resources, the initiative aims to protect vulnerable communities and preserve the ecological integrity of the Red Sea.

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