The exploitation of block 43 fuels the controversy over the Yasuni

The debate over the impact oil exploitation of the ITT project (Ishpingo, Tambococha and Tiputini) would generate, continues with the start of production in this biologically diverse area of the planet.

The first 12 wells are drilled in the Tiputini C field. This field is located outside the Yasuni National Park, but its platform is 1.5 kilometers from the reserve.

To reach Tiputini it is necessary to enter into the heart of the Amazon. From Coca, by speed boat, this is a four-hour trip down the Napo River until reaching Puerto Miranda, almost on the border with Peru. There is a communication tower, camps for workers and a 3.5 kilometers long road -of between four to six meters wide- that leads to the platform.

A bus for 40 people can pass through this route. Technicians of the Petroamazonas State company ensure that this ecological path meets the environmental specifications.

What does that mean? Diego Chacon, head of Safety and Environment, said Wednesday in a tour with the press, that the width avoids the fragmentation of the forest. In addition, he said, canopy bridges have been built to facilitate the transit of tree species, such as monkeys, and added that ‘trap’ cameras have detected the presence of deers and tapirs on depressed bridges.

“We have even seen jaguars resting on the edge of the trail. That means that the measures are working,” he said.