EP Petroecuador has declared a state of emergency and force majeure on its Trans-Ecuadorian Pipeline System (SOTE) following a significant landslide that ruptured the pipeline, leading to an oil spill. The declaration, made through Resolution No. PETRO-PGG-2025-0014-RSL on March 18, aims to expedite the necessary repairs and mitigate the environmental impact of the incident.

The landslide, which occurred along a section of the SOTE, resulted in a substantial displacement of earth, directly impacting the pipeline's integrity and causing a release of crude oil. The exact volume of the spill is currently under assessment and will be determined once pumping operations resume and thorough balances are conducted, with verification provided by the Hydrocarbon Regulation and Control Agency.

To address the immediate aftermath, EP Petroecuador has initiated extensive cleanup and repair efforts. A crucial component of this operation is the removal of approximately 225,000 cubic meters of displaced material from the hillside above the pipeline’s right-of-way. This removal has been completed, paving the way for the restoration of the pipeline.

The declared state of emergency, which will remain in effect for a maximum of 60 days, grants EP Petroecuador the authority to take all necessary actions and allocate resources to minimize the disruption to hydrocarbon operations. This includes the expedited contracting of labor, services, goods, and equipment required for the repair and cleanup activities.

The incident has resulted in the deferral of Oriente crude oil exports through the Balao Maritime Terminal. EP Petroecuador has assured that companies affected by the rescheduling will be notified promptly once the force majeure is lifted and export schedules are revised.

Despite the disruption to SOTE operations, EP Petroecuador has emphasized that domestic fuel and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) supplies will remain unaffected. The company currently holds a substantial inventory of crude oil, with 1,148,323 barrels available to ensure the continued operation of the Esmeraldas Refinery.

Furthermore, exports from the OCP Maritime Terminal are proceeding as scheduled, and Napo crude oil exports are also continuing without interruption, supported by a stock of 1,027,182 barrels at OCP.

EP Petroecuador anticipates that SOTE operations will resume within the week, contingent on the completion of remaining repairs and safety assessments. The company has committed to providing regular updates through its official channels and urges citizens to rely on these sources for accurate and timely information.

The incident underscores the challenges associated with operating critical infrastructure in environmentally sensitive and geologically active regions. The company is committed to prioritizing environmental protection and safety in its ongoing operations.