A diesel spill in the Viche River, particularly in the Pueblo Nuevo area of the Quinindé canton, has raised significant alarm among local authorities and residents due to the environmental impact and the potential health risks involved. The incident compelled Emapse, the water and sanitation company, to announce a preventive closure of water extraction and production wells that supply potable water to Rioverde, Atacames, and Esmeraldas. This closure was reported late evening on March 18, and the community is currently facing a lack of clean drinking water.

Preliminary reports indicate that the spill was triggered by an illegal drilling activity targeting the pipeline, which led to the fuel leak contaminating the river. The situation prompted immediate action from local authorities, who reported the incident to the relevant institutions. The intervention of Petroamazonas and the Ministry of Environment and Energy and Mines has been requested to address the situation and mitigate further impacts.

This incident raises serious concerns about environmental safety and public health in the affected areas. The closure of water services will not only burden the communities reliant on these resources but may also lead to a broader environmental crisis if not managed swiftly. Residents and authorities must remain vigilant as efforts to contain and clean the spill are underway, with the community's access to safe water being a top priority in the coming days.