Baku: SOCAR's Azneft Production Union has identified the source of oil pollution at Dubendi beach as damage to an underwater pipeline. On June 19, the central office of SOCAR's Azneft Production Union was alerted to traces of oil pollution in the Dubendi beach area.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, an initial inspection using vessels and a helicopter revealed an oil slick in the water area between Pirallahi Island and Dubendi. As no active oil leakage point was visible initially, several potential sources of pollution were considered. Through controlled diagnostic inspections, the pollution was traced back to an underwater pipeline owned by Azneft Production Union. Following this discovery, the transportation of oil through the pipeline was halted, and an operational headquarters was established by Azneft to manage and control the situation.

Further diagnostic measures by Azneft's diving service confirmed mechanical damage to the pipeline, believed to have been caused by an external object, likely an anchor. Repair and restoration efforts commenced immediately to address the damage. The damaged pipeline will remain non-operational until repairs are complete to prevent further leakage. Cleanup operations for the affected sea and coastal areas are underway, with the Ministry of Emergency Situations and Azneft Production Union coordinating efforts to mitigate the incident's impact.