Cabimas coast faces recurring oil spills and gas leaks

The Fundación Azul Ambientalistas has issued an alert regarding recurring oil spills and gas leaks along the coast of Cabimas in Zulia state, specifically within the eastern region of Lake Maracaibo. Following an inspection tour, the organization reported a continuous presence of hydrocarbons on the water's surface.

Yohan Flores, the organization's general director in Zulia, attributed these incidents to the reactivation of oil activities in the sector and a lack of preventive maintenance on PDVSA's pipeline infrastructure. The foundation criticized the lack of official response from PDVSA and noted that the Commission for the Recovery of Lake Maracaibo, established in 2023, has failed to provide accountability regarding its actions.

The pollution is causing significant economic and environmental damage to local communities. Artisanal fishing families are facing lost workdays, the destruction of fishing nets, and structural damage to boats due to contact with crude oil and other petroleum residues.