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The workers at the Sergio Soto Refinery in Cabaiguán continue to face challenging conditions as they work to clean up the areas affected by an oil spill caused by a train collision last Saturday in Guayos, Sancti Spíritus.
According to reports from the Cuban Petroleum Union (CUPET), the teams are recovering some of the nearly 60,000 liters of crude oil spilled following the accident.
"We have little left," the oil workers expressed through social media, posting images that demonstrate the extent of the damage, with oil even on the branches of nearby trees.
The day before, the deputy director of the refinery, Carlos Enríquez Díaz Bernal, reported that the recovered crude oil is being transported to tanker trucks for processing.
The accident involved two freight trains: one that was transporting goods from the Mariel Special Development Zone to Camagüey, and another coming from the deposits in Ciego de Ávila.
Although the impact was significant, no human casualties were reported, according to Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila, the Minister of Transport.
The incident adds to a worrying series of railway accidents in Cuba during 2024, a year marked by the deterioration of infrastructure and a lack of safety at railway crossings.
Among the most notable cases is the derailment of a passenger train in Matanzas on September 28, which left hundreds of people stranded and disrupted operations on the Central Line.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Oil Spill Following the Train Accident in Cuba
What was the cause of the oil spill in Sancti Spíritus?
The oil spill was caused by a collision between two freight trains in Guayos, Sancti Spíritus. This accident resulted in the spillage of approximately 60,000 liters of crude oil, affecting surrounding areas and causing significant environmental damage.
How are the authorities managing the oil spill in Sancti Spíritus?
The brigades from Unión Cuba-Petróleo (CUPET) are working diligently to recover the spilled oil. The recovered oil is being transferred to tanker cars for processing. Additionally, environmental measures have been implemented to mitigate the impact of the spill in the affected area.
What environmental impact has the oil spill had in Sancti Spíritus?
The oil spill has significantly impacted the local environment, contaminating soils, trees, and nearby agricultural areas. Shared images show oil even on the branches of trees, posing a risk to the health of people and local wildlife.
What is the current situation of rail transport in Cuba?
In 2024, train accidents in Cuba have become a recurring issue, reflecting a notable deterioration of the railway infrastructure and a lack of safety at railway crossings. The public has voiced criticism and called for improvements in safety and maintenance.
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