On March 13, 2025, a landslide affected the Trans-Ecuadorian Pipeline System ( SOTE ), owned by EP Petroecuador , causing an oil spill. This event led the company to declare an emergency through the Resolution No. PETRO-PGG-2025-0014-RSL .
Controlling the oil spill in Las Esmeraldas
The National Government, in conjunction with EP Petroecuador, activated a comprehensive response plan to mitigate the effects of the incident in the Esmeraldas region, where the spill had a direct impact on the banks of several rivers . Approximately 225,000 cubic meters of displaced material have been removed, and cleanup measures have been implemented to reduce contamination. Furthermore, according to authorities, SOTE operations are expected to resume fully in the coming days.
Despite efforts to restore pumping, Oriente crude oil exports remain suspended through the Bala Maritime Terminal . However, Napo crude oil exports are proceeding normally through the Heavy Crude Pipeline ( OCP ), which was not affected by the incident. Furthermore, the company has assured that it has sufficient crude oil reserves to supply both the Esmeraldas Refinery and the domestic fuel and liquefied petroleum gas ( LPG ) market.
The Ecuadorian government , through various institutions, continues to ensure the supply of essential services such as drinking water in Esmeraldas. EP Petroecuador also reaffirms its commitment to the full recovery of the affected area, working together with local authorities to minimize the environmental impact.
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Source and photo: EP Petroecuador
