Manama: The Supreme Council for Environment (SCE), Bapco Refining, Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company (GPIC), and Aluminium Bahrain (Alba) have conducted a joint field exercise named "Jahezya 2" to address oil spill incidents. This exercise aimed to test the effectiveness of response plans and enhance coordination among relevant authorities to protect the coastal ecosystems in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the Chief Executive of the SCE, Amna Hamad Al Rumaihi, highlighted that the exercise is part of a national plan to improve response efficiency to marine pollution incidents caused by oil and hazardous substances. This plan involves preparing and updating emergency plans, conducting regular effectiveness assessments, and ensuring a rapid response to environmental emergencies. The exercise, supervised by the SCE and coordinated with the National Committee for Disaster Response, simulated an oil spill at Bapco Refining Port to test various protocols.
Al Rumaihi noted that the exercise reflects the Council's dedication to enhancing national preparedness and improving technical and human capacities in managing oil spill incidents. She emphasized the cooperation with partners in government and industry, which plays a crucial role in protecting Bahrain's marine environment.
Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, Acting Managing Director of Bapco Energies and CEO of Bapco Refining, described "Jahezya 2" as a significant milestone in the Kingdom's environmental crisis management development. He stated that it aligns with Bapco Refining's strategy for sustainability and environmental protection and exemplifies advanced cooperation with national partners like the SCE, Alba, and GPIC.
Jawahery stressed the importance of regular response drills and enhancing communication and interoperability among teams. He noted that the exercise was designed to improve readiness, validate emergency plans, and ensure compliance with national regulations, thereby enhancing overall operational preparedness.
Yasser Abdulrahim Al Abbasi, CEO of GPIC, affirmed the company's dedication to supporting national efforts in marine and coastal environmental protection, aligning with the highest environmental standards. Meanwhile, Ali Al Baqali, CEO of Alba, expressed pride in participating in the exercise, highlighting the positive outcomes achieved through effective coordination among teams. He commended the technical and field teams for their preparedness and ability to apply best practices in managing environmental incidents.
The "Jahezya 2" exercise marks a crucial step in strengthening national capacity to tackle environmental challenges, bolster preparedness across sectors, and reinforce Bahrain's position as a leader in industrial emergency management and marine environmental protection.