WATCH: Out-of-control ferry crashes into Canary Islands harbour wall

THE Government of the Canary Islands has implemented an emergency plan to minimise pollution after a ferry ploughed into the Nelson Mandela Quay in Las Palmas, the capital of Gran Canaria.

Reports indicated that 13 passengers were injured when the Volcán de Tamasite, operated by Naviera Armas, slammed into the quayside after suffering electrical problems and losing power to its engines after leaving the port.

Port officials have stated that the pier into which the ship collided has fuel pipes inside and have released 25,000 litres of diesel into the sea.  But other sources have indicated the amount could be up to 60,000 litres.

The president of the Government of the Canary Islands has participated in a crisis cabinet as authorities start the mop up operation, with the fuel slick reported to be 500 metres wide and three kilometres long at one point.