A fuel leak from a gas station in Barreal de Heredia has not been attended to in over 1 year, and now the CNE (National Emergency Commission) has requested that a national emergency be declared.  The contamination threatens aquifers that provide drinking water for over 320 000 people.

Funding and action is necessary, so that the size of the contamination can be determined and steps to clean it up can be taken. Although groundwater contamination spreads slowly, it is now spreading to a critical point and clean up, utilizing international specialists and specifically designed pumps, is vital.

The current problem is not a lack of political will, just that institutions involved may not release crucial funds because of red tape and bureaucratic restraints.  A National Emergency declaration could resolve these issues.