An industrial sugar-refining complex in the Cuban province of Matanzas has been blamed for underground build-up of methane gas and other environment violations.
A government news daily reported the Jess Rab agro-industrial complex in Calimete, a municipality in Matanzas, had put thousands at risk. Officials found the company's refinery and distillery discharged their untreated waste into a ditch, contaminating groundwater. The discharge leaked into the subsoil and created underground pockets of methane, which is inflammable when mixed with air.
In cold weather, the methane accumulated in people's houses, leaking through floor tiles, chinks in walls and floors or into courtyards through cracks in the ground. This had caused many accidents due to fire.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
.png)
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.