More than two years have passed since the catastrophic fire engulfed the Matanzas Supertanker Base in August 2022. Cuban authorities claim progress is being made in reconstructing this key oil hub, although they face significant logistical and financial hurdles. In a brief statement, Cuba Petroleum Company (Cupet) announced that "recovery efforts are ongoing... The workforce from the Oil Maintenance Company (EMPet) plays a crucial role in the activities underway."
Official reports indicate that cleanup and debris removal operations have been completed in the affected area, along with the rehabilitation of crude storage zones. However, the full replacement of the destroyed tanks remains a slow process, hindered by the nation's economic crisis and the difficulty in acquiring necessary materials and technology.
Photographs shared by Cupet reveal the construction framework of a large storage tank, surrounded by extensive red scaffolding. Workers, donned in helmets and protective gear, can be seen operating at various levels of the structure, with construction materials like metal sheets and tools scattered at the base.
In April 2024, Matanzas Fuel Marketer released images highlighting the delays in reconstruction. The photos showed that only the base and less than half of the first tank's structure had been completed. Welding efforts continue to be a critical aspect of building tank 88, particularly on the verticals, the installation of the fourth roll, and the construction of the fire wall.
Officials from the Ministry of Energy and Mines have noted that, for safety reasons, only two new tanks will replace the original four. These will feature enhanced safety standards, including greater spacing between them and containment areas capable of holding the entire fuel volume in the event of a spill.
However, no specific timelines have been provided for the completion of the reconstruction, nor details regarding the required investment. The explosion and subsequent fire at the Matanzas Supertanker Base are regarded as one of the worst industrial disasters in Cuba's history, resulting in at least 17 fatalities, numerous injuries, and severe environmental damage.
Progress and Challenges in Rebuilding Matanzas Supertanker Base
What has been completed so far in the reconstruction of the Matanzas Supertanker Base?
Cleanup and debris removal have been finished, and the rehabilitation of crude storage areas is underway. The construction of a large storage tank's framework is visible, though progress is slow due to economic challenges.
What are the main challenges in rebuilding the base?
The reconstruction faces significant challenges due to Cuba's economic crisis and difficulties in obtaining necessary materials and technology. This has slowed down the replacement of the destroyed tanks.
How many new tanks are being built and what safety measures are being implemented?
Two new tanks are being constructed to replace the original four, with enhanced safety measures, including more significant spacing and containment areas to hold the entire fuel volume in case of a spill.