‘Oil will take at least six months to degrade’

Dr Deepak Apte, marine biologist and assistant director at BNHS, speaks to Snehal Rebello on the Mumbai oil spill and its impact.

To what extent is oil present? And how is it breaking down? If it is, what are the compounds formed? And would be it be a cause of worry?
We are also looking at how the oil is breaking. We are still analyzing the degradation of oil, because the constitution of compounds formed during the course could be detrimental to flora and fauna. However, the extended monsoon has helped the natural clean up at places such as Uran and Vashi.

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What happens to the beaches that were contaminated? What is estimated period of natural recovery?
Oil from the surface of the beaches has disappeared. But the seepage within the sand has to be studied. It will take at least six months for the oil to degrade, considering the daily tidal patterns.

Will oil in crevices of rocks affect marine life?
Spawning has just begun. Post-December, they will settle in the crevices. Only by January or February will we be able to assess the impact on fresh marines species.

When can we expect to have a conclusive report?
There are two impact studies. The Rapid Assessment Report will be submitted to the MoEF in the third week of November. The final report will be submitted after a year.