Nico's rescue exposed hydrocarbon leaks in Comodoro Rivadavia

The discovery of Nico, a dog covered in oil in Comodoro Rivadavia, led to a municipal inspection that detected pools containing hydrocarbons and signs of soil contamination. The rescue operation involved local residents, firefighters, police officers, rescue workers and animal welfare organizations.

The animal was taken to a veterinary clinic, where staff worked for several hours to remove the hydrocarbon coating his body. According to the latest report, he remains in the detoxification process and has already begun eating.

Following the rescue, the Municipality's Undersecretariat of Environment surveyed the area where the dog was found. There, it identified several pools, some built from dismantled tank remnants. Preliminary observations indicate that at least two of them may be leaking into the surrounding soil.

Municipal Government Secretary Jordana Mrla said there is a contamination issue that must be addressed immediately and suggested the area could constitute an environmental liability. She also warned about the presence of other animals in the pools, as well as the risk posed by access to the site.

According to preliminary information, the perimeter fence had been cut and a secondary path facilitated access to the coast. The Municipality is seeking to determine who built the pools, how the hydrocarbon got there, and who is responsible for the facilities.

The land belongs to Petroquímica and lies within the CRI Holding deposit, although it had been used for various oil operations. During the survey, a dismantled structure was also found that may have once been an old dehydration unit.

Given this situation, the Municipality requested information from Chubut's Ministry of Hydrocarbons regarding the current operator responsible for the site and those who previously oversaw the facility. This information will help determine potential sanctions and the remediation work needed for the affected soil.

With information from Energía Online.