Recent leakage of contaminants from the Cooks Landfill
The authorities have confirmed that the recent leakage of contaminants from the Cooks Landfill into coastal waters has been brought under control, following swift intervention by national emergency and environmental agencies.
The National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC), which was partially activated after the issue came to light on February 12, reported that there have been no further signs of seepage from the affected area.
The incident was initially reported to the Pilot Station at the Antigua Port Authority, prompting an urgent response and a subsequent meeting of the National Marine Pollution Committee.
The multi-agency body, which includes several key government departments, coordinated actions in line with the National Marine Pollution Manual.
Containment booms were deployed in the waters at Hansons Bay, near Pearns Point, to prevent the spread of contaminants. Water quality testing was conducted by the Department of Analytical Services to assess the extent of any environmental impact.
As a precautionary measure, residents were advised against fishing or engaging in recreational activities in the affected area. Those restrictions remain in place pending the results of the water quality tests.
Agencies represented on the National Marine Pollution Committee include the National Office of Disaster Services, the Ministries of Health, Tourism, Legal Affairs and Agriculture, the Solid Waste Management Authority, the Department of Environment, the West Indies Oil Company, the Department of Marine Services, the Defence Force Coast Guard, the Fisheries Division, the Antigua Port Authority, and the Meteorological Office.
With the situation now stabilised, the NEOC has been deactivated. However, officials have indicated that monitoring of the site will continue to ensure there is no recurrence.
Recommendations have also been put forward to strengthen preventative measures and to ensure that critical departments, including Solid Waste, are adequately resourced to manage waste disposal and environmental safeguards more effectively.
From which Sanitary Landfill was the leak from? It was certainly not the New Landfill, where Household waste and other Solid Materials are being disposed of.