Environmental Emergency Declared in Peru After Oil Spill
An environmental emergency has been declared in Peru following an oil spill in the Pacific Ocean by state oil firm Petroperu. The company has deployed workers for cleanup operations, but has not disclosed the volume of oil spilled.
According to a preliminary report by Peru’s environmental watchdog, OEFA, approximately 10,000 square meters of surface seawater have been affected by the spill. The oil spill has caused damage to coastal ecosystems, harming plants and marine animals, including crabs.
Local authorities have reported that the spill has also impacted local fishermen, who have been unable to work due to the contamination. The Mayor of Obitos Ward, Ricardo Banca, has expressed concern over the potential impact on tourism in the area and has called on the responsible authorities to take decisive action.
Petroperu has pledged to continue its cleanup efforts using crews, boats, and drones to manage and monitor the affected area.
