The Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) wishes to provide an update regarding the fuel oil seepage identified at a storage tank located at the former Friars Hill Power Station facility.
Following consultations with the relevant stakeholders and regulatory agencies, a coordinated response plan has been implemented to safely manage and contain the situation.
The following steps are now being taken:
• The National Office of Disaster Services (NODS) has been engaged to support ongoing response efforts, ensuring that containment measures are implemented in accordance with established standards and that the situation is appropriately monitored and managed. Containment measures have commenced using approved absorbent materials to contain and recover fuel that has seeped from the storage tank.
• APUA has assessed the affected storage tank and has commenced the transfer of fuel to a second storage tank on the site as part of efforts to safely manage the situation. Additional arrangements are being made for the removal of the remaining fuel.
• Residual contaminated materials generated during the containment and cleanup process will be transported to the Cooks Landfill in coordination with landfill personnel and in accordance with established procedures.
Current containment measures are focused on preventing any further movement of the fuel while recovery and transfer operations continue under the guidance of the relevant authorities.
APUA also wishes to acknowledge the support being provided by government agencies. The Ministry of Works has volunteered the use of heavy duty equipment to assist with the response efforts, while the Ministry of Urban Transformation has provided materials to support the containment process.
We recognize that residents and businesses in the surrounding area may have concerns regarding potential impacts on public health and the environment. APUA wishes to reassure the public that the Authority continues to work closely with the Central Board of Health, the National Office of Disaster Services, the Development Control Authority (DCA), the Antigua and Barbuda Police Force, and other relevant stakeholders to ensure that all necessary safety, environmental, and operational protocols are strictly observed throughout the response process.
As a precaution, individuals who are particularly sensitive to petroleum odors or airborne irritants are encouraged to remain mindful of conditions in the area and utilize any personal protective measures they would normally employ.
The Authority remains committed to addressing this matter as safely and efficiently as possible and will continue to provide updates as additional information becomes available.