Moments of tension were experienced in the Lobitos district, in Talara, when the general manager of Petroperu, Oscar Verahad to hastily leave a meeting with residents and local authorities. The attendees, outraged by the oil spill that has affected five beaches in the area, rebuked him, demanding immediate responses.
In the midst of the chaos, Vera was hit by objects stained with what appeared to be oil, staining part of his clothing, as recorded in videos. The police intervened to escort him and prevent the situation from escalating.
The spill, which occurred weeks ago, has left serious consequences: fishing and tourist activities paralyzed, million-dollar economic losses and entire communities affected. The most impacted beaches, such as “Las Capullanas”, remain contaminated, while fishermen question how they will be able to survive in the absence of work.
“What are Lobitos going to eat?” the affected fishermen complained to the state officials.
During the meeting, two main topics were addressed: compensation to residents and beach cleaning. Vera assured that Petroperú is waiting for the technical reports to evaluate the damages and determine compensation following current regulations. However, residents demand concrete and quick actions to get back on their feet.
The situation in Lobitos shows an environmental and social crisis that remains unresolved.
UNHEALTHY BEACH
After the oil spill that occurred on December 20, Capullanas beach has been declared “Unhealthy” for recreational and fishing activities due to environmental and health risks, reported the District Municipality of Lobitos.
The local authority urged the population to avoid access to the area while cleaning and mitigation work is carried out. In addition, the municipality will continue to report on progress in corrective actions and highlighted the importance of prioritizing safety and environmental care.
In a previous statement, the municipality recommended that the community and visitors refrain from using the beaches until the General Directorate of Environmental Health (Digesa), Captaincy, and the Environmental Evaluation and Supervision Body (OEFA) issue a report on the suitability of the areas. Likewise, the population was invited to participate in the Dialogue Table with Petroperú, scheduled for 9:00 a.m. at the Teófilo Cubillas Coliseum.
Take advantage of the NEW EXPERIENCE, receive our enriched digital newspaper by mail and WhatsApp. Peru21 ePaper.
Now available in Yape! Find us at YAPE Promos.
RECOMMENDED VIDEO
