Ecuador Ministry Declares New Amazon Fuel Leak an ‘Attack’

Ecuador has identified a new fuel leak in the Amazon, deemed an ‘attack’ linked to sabotage. This follows a prior spill that disrupted clean water access for many. Authorities confirmed they are assessing the need to protect the Coca Codo Sinclair hydroelectric plant amidst these concerns.

On March 23, 2025, officials in Ecuador reported a new fuel leak in the Amazon region, labeling it an “attack.” This follows a previous leak that severely impacted hundreds of thousands of individuals. Although the energy ministry did not disclose the volume of the new spill or its impact on the Coca River, it attributed the incident to sabotage.

The energy ministry confirmed that a leak of oil derivatives occurred in the eastern province of Napo. In light of a separate spill declared an emergency on March 13, which contaminated several rivers and cut off access to clean drinking water for numerous citizens, authorities are concerned that the latest leak could have similar effects.

Officials indicated that a decision will be reached regarding the potential shutdown of the Coca Codo Sinclair hydroelectric power plant to safeguard its equipment. However, they assured that such a shutdown would not result in power outages, as the energy supply for the nation would remain secure.

Last year’s drought left Ecuador facing severe blackouts lasting up to 14 hours per day, exacerbating the situation as hydroelectric reservoirs reached historic low levels. The previous spill was attributed to a landslide that fractured a crucial pipeline, spilling tens of thousands of barrels of oil into multiple waterways, including the Esmeraldas River, which leads to the Pacific Ocean.

Energy Minister Ines Manzano condemned the acts of sabotage against the country’s oil infrastructure. President Daniel Noboa, who has been in office since November 2023, is preparing for a presidential runoff election with leftist opposition leader Luisa Gonzalez on April 13.

Ecuador’s recent fuel pipeline leak in the Amazon has been characterized as an act of sabotage, following significant pollution from an earlier spill. Officials emphasized the potential impact on clean water supplies stemming from both leaks, while ensuring continued energy provision through careful management of hydroelectric resources. The situation reflects ongoing challenges in maintaining infrastructure safety within the country.

Original Source: www.bssnews.net