On May 28, 2025, an exercise titled “Danube 2025” was conducted in the waters of the Port of Ruse, focusing on emergency response to oil product pollution in the Danube River. The initiative emphasized improving coordination and interaction between institutions responsible for protecting the coastline and environment during incidents that threaten both ecosystems and public safety. Special attention was given to the “Natura 2000” protected area – Aleko Island, where, according to the exercise scenario, there was a risk of diesel fuel leakage due to a pipeline rupture during a cargo operation.
The participation of the Bulgarian Ports Infrastructure Company (BPI Co.) was crucial in implementing pollution containment actions. The company contributed with equipment for prevention and response to operational and emergency pollution (PREOP). The specialized LAMOR-type boat provided mobility and rapid response on water. In response to the threat, two cascading lines of boom barriers were deployed to divert the oil spill away from the shores of Sandrovo village and Aleko Island. LAMOR played an important role in deploying the barriers, acting in close coordination with other vessels involved in the training simulation.
The exercise was carried out jointly with institutional partners and volunteer formations from the municipalities of Ruse and Slivo Pole. Along with BPI Co., it involved the General Directorate “Emergency Rescue Activity” and the Directorate “River Supervision – Ruse” of the Maritime Administration Executive Agency, PCMV Varna, Regional Directorate “Fire Safety and Population Protection” – Ruse, Regional Directorate “Border Police” – Ruse, the Executive Agency for Exploration and Maintenance of the Danube River, as well as local volunteers.
