Information, Communications Technologies, Utilities and Energy Minister Melford Nicholas has declared resident safety and environmental protection the government's top priorities following a fuel leak at APUA's former Friars Hill facility.
Nicholas confirmed in a statement issued Sunday that multiple state agencies have been mobilised as emergency operations continue at the site, after a storage tank was found to be leaking fuel. The minister, who holds ministerial responsibility for APUA, said authorities moved swiftly once the situation was identified.
"We are committed to ensuring the safety of our residents while addressing this leak," Nicholas said. "Our primary focus is to mitigate any potential environmental impact and safeguard the community."
The Antigua Public Utilities Authority has activated its internal emergency response protocols and is working in close coordination with the National Office of Disaster Services, the Antigua and Barbuda Fire Department, the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda, the Central Board of Health and the Development Control Authority.
Additional agencies involved in the response include the National Solid Waste Management Authority, the West Indies Oil Company, the Ministry of Environment and the Public Works Department. Together, officials are assessing the full scope of the incident and determining the most effective containment strategy.
Nicholas emphasised that inter-agency collaboration will be essential to bringing the situation under control. "Collaboration with all relevant authorities is crucial," he said. "We will leave no stone unturned in addressing this situation effectively."
Environmental assessments and investigations remain ongoing as containment crews continue operations at the site. Authorities have not yet disclosed the volume of fuel involved. Officials say monitoring will continue and the public will be kept informed as further details become available.
APUA has asked residents to remain patient as response teams work to manage the incident and prevent additional environmental damage.
