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More than two years after the devastating fire that consumed the Supertanker Base in Matanzas in August 2022, Cuban authorities assert that the reconstruction of this strategic oil enclave is progressing, albeit with notable logistical and financial challenges.
In a brief statement, the Cuba Petróleos Company (Cupet) affirmed that "recovery efforts are ongoing... The workforce of the Oil Maintenance Company (EMPet) is vital to the actions taking place there."
According to official reports, cleanup and debris removal work has been completed in the affected area, as well as the rehabilitation of the crude oil storage areas.
However, the complete replacement of the destroyed tanks has been a slow process, influenced by the economic crisis the country is experiencing and the difficulty in acquiring the necessary materials and technology.
In photos shared by Cupet, the structure of a large storage tank under construction can be seen, surrounded by extensive red scaffolding.
Several individuals, equipped with helmets and protective suits, are working at different levels of the structure, while at the bottom, there are scattered construction materials such as metal sheets and tools.
In April 2024, the Fuel Marketing Company of Matanzas published images that reveal the delay in the reconstruction. The photos showed that only the base had been constructed and less than half of the structure of the first tank.
Welding operations continue to define the critical path in the construction of tank 88, particularly in the vertical structures, the assembly of the fourth roller, and the construction of the firebreak wall.
Officials from the Ministry of Energy and Mines have stated that, due to safety reasons, only two new tanks will be constructed instead of the original four.
These will feature enhanced safety standards, including increased spacing between them and containers capable of comfortably retaining the entire amount of fuel in case of a spill.
However, no specific timelines have been provided for the complete completion of the works, nor details regarding the required investment
The explosion and fire at the Supertanker Base in Matanzas were considered one of the worst industrial disasters in Cuba's history, resulting in at least 17 deaths and dozens of injuries, in addition to severe environmental damage.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Reconstruction of the Supertankers Base in Matanzas
How is the reconstruction of the Matanzas Oil Terminal progressing?
More than two years after the fire, Cuban authorities assure that the reconstruction of the Matanzas Supertanker Base is progressing, although there are notable logistical and financial challenges. Cleansing and debris removal work has been completed, but the full replacement of the destroyed tanks is advancing slowly due to the economic crisis and lack of materials.
How many tanks will be rebuilt at the Supertankers Base?
Two new tanks will be erected in place of the original four storage units. These tanks will feature enhanced safety standards, including greater spacing between them and containment basins capable of holding all of the fuel in case of a spill.
What are the main challenges in reconstructing the tanks in Matanzas?
Reconstruction faces significant logistical and financial challenges. The economic crisis in Cuba and the difficulty in acquiring necessary materials and technology are the main obstacles to progress in the works.
When is the reconstruction of the Matanzas Supertanker Base expected to be completed?
No specific deadlines have been provided for the complete completion of the works, creating uncertainty about when the Matanzas Supertanker Base will be fully operational.
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