Collapse of a Giant Drilling Rig in the Suez Gulf Raises Authorities' Concern

In an unprecedented incident, the waters of the Suez Gulf in the Red Sea Governorate witnessed the collapse of one of the massive and aging marine drilling rigs, raising questions about the causes of the accident and its environmental impact.

The Egyptian Ministry of Petroleum announced that it received a report of the collapse of the rig located in the Ras Gharib waiting area, adding that the rig belonged to an unofficial private company within the Egyptian petroleum sector and is currently not operational.

The Ministry confirmed that the rig had been out of operation for several years, seized by a bank, and was positioned adjacent to the General Petroleum Company site.

Initial investigations indicated that the collapse resulted from the corrosion of the supporting columns due to rust caused by the rig's aging and continuous exposure to weather conditions.

On the positive side, the Ministry confirmed that the accident did not result in any human casualties or oil leaks, due to the rig not being in operation for a long period.

The results of the environmental survey conducted on Thursday morning showed the environmental situation in the area to be stable with no signs of pollution or risks.

The Ministry stated that it will take all necessary measures to investigate the circumstances of the incident and communicate with the relevant authorities to inquire about the legal status of the company owning the rig.