BTN News: Cenit, a subsidiary of Grupo Ecopetrol, is actively managing the emergency situation that arose in the rural area of Villa López, located in the municipality of San Juan de Betulia, Sucre. This emergency stems from an oil spill caused by a breach in the Caño Limón-Coveñas pipeline, attributed to illicit actions carried out by unknown individuals. These actions have not only disrupted operations but have also raised significant concerns about the safety and environmental impact in the region.
In response to the incident, which has since been brought under control, Cenit has implemented its Emergency and Contingency Plan (PEC). As a precautionary measure, operations on the Caño Limón-Coveñas pipeline, which stretches from Arauquita in Arauca to the port of Coveñas in Sucre, have been suspended until repairs are completed and the system can safely resume operation. A specialized technical team has been deployed to the site to conduct thorough inspections and assessments of the pipeline rupture. The goal is to ensure that the necessary repairs are made promptly and effectively to prevent any further damage or environmental degradation.
The pipeline, crucial for the transportation of oil, suffered two distinct breaches due to cuts made by unidentified third parties. These breaches led to an oil spill, the effects of which are being diligently addressed by Cenit. The company has taken swift action to secure and control the leaks, mitigating the immediate impact of the spill. Efforts are currently focused on the collection and safe storage of the spilled oil. Additionally, Cenit has established permanent monitoring points in the surrounding areas to continuously assess the environmental conditions and prevent further contamination.
Cenit and its parent company, Ecopetrol, have strongly condemned these unlawful activities, which not only endanger human lives but also pose severe threats to the environment and local communities. The companies have issued a public appeal urging the cessation of such criminal acts against critical infrastructure. These acts not only disrupt essential services but also carry long-lasting negative consequences for the ecosystems and residents of the affected areas.
As Cenit continues to manage the fallout from this incident, the emphasis remains on restoring the affected infrastructure and minimizing the environmental impact. The suspension of the pipeline’s operations underscores the seriousness of the situation and the company’s commitment to addressing the emergency with the utmost care and responsibility. The ongoing investigation into the causes of the breach will be crucial in preventing future occurrences and ensuring the safety and integrity of Colombia’s vital oil transportation network.
