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Pemex conducts cleanup in Pánuco River following suspected spill
Pemex and the Mexican Navy are conducting cleanup and sanitation operations in the Pánuco River following reports of dark discoloration and suspected hydrocarbon presence. The incident follows heavy rainfall in the region, specifically near Ciudad Madero, which may have caused sediment or residues to be washed into the river through the refinery's drainage systems.
Cleanup efforts include the deployment of Vactor units, pressure-vacuum units, and skimmers to recover materials from the water and riverbanks. Authorities, including Profepa and the Agency for Safety, Energy and Environment (ASEA), have conducted inspections to document the conditions. While some reports suggest the discoloration could be due to sediment washed away by intense rains, local fishermen have reported the presence of oil-like stains affecting their activities.
The Mexican Navy has performed environmental surveillance via drones and patrols, noting a progressive decrease in water discoloration in certain navigation channels. Pemex continues to monitor the area near the Francisco I. Madero refinery to prevent further accidental discharges.
Entities
Francisco I. Madero Refinery · PROFEPA · Pemex · Pánuco River · Refinería Francisco I. Madero · Río Pánuco · Secretaría de Marina · Tamaulipas · Veracruz