Pemex hydrocarbon spills affect water bodies in Tamaulipas

Multiple hydrocarbon spills linked to Petróleos Mexicanos (Pemex) have contaminated various water bodies in the southern region of Tamaululipas, Mexico. The spills have affected the Pánuco River, Los Patos Lagoon, the Barberena estuary, and several local canals in Altamira and Ciudad Madero.

Residents in Ciudad Madero's Hipódromo neighborhood have reported intense odors and oily residues in local channels. While Pemex personnel have reportedly installed traps to remove dense contaminants, locals claim that oil residues and strong smells persist, with some noting that contaminated water is damaging local vegetation.

State and municipal authorities in Tamaulipas have expressed concern over the lack of technical reports from Pemex regarding the origin and magnitude of the damage. Karl Heinz Becker Hernández, the state Secretary of Urban Development and Environment, noted that while the state is ready to assist in inspections, legal jurisdiction lies with federal agencies such as the Agency for Safety, Energy and Environment (ASEA).

In Ciudad Madero, Mayor Erasmo González Robledo stated that the municipality is awaiting technical analyses to determine remediation plans for affected flora and fauna. Local officials in Altamira have warned they may file complaints with environmental protection agencies if Pemex fails to provide necessary information regarding the impact on local communities and ecosystems.