The Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) says an extensive containment and recovery operation is underway following the discovery of a fuel oil seepage from a storage tank at the former Friars Hill Power Station.

In a statement released Monday, APUA said it has activated a coordinated response involving several government agencies and regulatory bodies to contain the leak and prevent further environmental impact.

The National Office of Disaster Services (NODS) has been deployed to assist with ongoing response efforts, while specialized absorbent materials are being used to contain and recover fuel that escaped from the affected tank.

Officials have also begun transferring fuel from the compromised storage tank to another tank on the site in an effort to reduce the risk of additional leakage. Arrangements are also being made to remove the remaining fuel from the facility.

APUA said the immediate focus is on preventing any further spread of the fuel while cleanup and recovery operations continue under the supervision of relevant authorities.

As part of the cleanup effort, contaminated materials collected during the operation will be transported to the Cooks Landfill and disposed of in accordance with established environmental procedures.

The utility company acknowledged the support of several government agencies assisting with the response. The Ministry of Works has provided heavy-duty equipment to support containment activities, while the Ministry of Urban Transformation has supplied materials needed for the ongoing operation.

Residents and business owners in the surrounding area have expressed concerns about possible environmental and public health implications. However, APUA has sought to reassure the public that it is working closely with the Central Board of Health, NODS, the Development Control Authority (DCA), the Antigua and Barbuda Police Force and other stakeholders to ensure all necessary safety and environmental protocols are being followed.

As a precaution, the authority is advising individuals who are particularly sensitive to petroleum odors or airborne irritants to take appropriate protective measures and remain mindful of conditions in the area.

APUA said it remains committed to resolving the situation as safely and efficiently as possible and will continue to provide updates as response efforts progress.

The fuel leak prompted a significant emergency response at the Friars Hill facility earlier Monday, drawing personnel from multiple agencies as crews worked to contain the spill and prevent contamination of nearby areas.