A storage tank explosion at an asphalt plant on the outskirts of Sancti Spíritus on Tuesday night resulted in dramatic images of the charred facility. According to reports from the state-run Granma newspaper, emergency crews responded swiftly, extending their efforts into Wednesday morning to address the damage in the affected area.
Preliminary damage assessments estimate losses at approximately 23,000 Cuban pesos. Fortunately, the plant's industrial facilities remained intact, allowing the technological processes to continue uninterrupted, as stated by Jesús Pérez Sánchez, the director of the base business unit (UEB) affiliated with the Construction and Assembly Company.
Despite the incident, planned work on roads in the Olivos 3 neighborhood in the provincial capital and on Massó Street in the Cabaiguán municipality is proceeding as scheduled, the source confirmed.
The explosion left Alexey Díaz Salas, a 48-year-old worker, in critical condition with burns sustained while performing candle operations during the incident. The tank contained rc-0 liquid, a component essential for asphalt production that must be maintained at high temperatures for its application on roads.
Throughout the night and early morning, forensic teams and specialists collaborated with the UEB's management council and the company to investigate the explosion's cause.
Key Questions About the Sancti Spíritus Asphalt Plant Explosion
What caused the explosion at the Sancti Spíritus asphalt plant?
The exact cause of the explosion is still under investigation by forensic teams and specialists, with cooperation from the plant's management and company officials.
Were there any injuries as a result of the explosion?
Yes, Alexey Díaz Salas, a worker at the plant, was critically injured with burns during the explosion.
What is the estimated financial damage from the explosion?
The preliminary estimate of the financial damage is around 23,000 pesos in national currency.