Concern has grown in recent days in Orio regarding the condition of the 'Gure Gaskuña' ship, which has been half-submerged in the outer port since it caught fire 40 days ago. The Town Council has monitored the situation from the outset and has now sent a formal information request to the Basque Government to clarify the vessel's status, planned actions, and safety measures.
The incident occurred on September 24th, and the ship has remained in the same location since. The day after the event, representatives from the Orio Town Council visited the site and were informed that there was a four-day deadline to submit an action plan, aiming to refloat the vessel by taking advantage of high tides.
Forty days have passed since then, and the ship remains in the same spot. During this time, the Orio Town Council has repeatedly requested information about the situation, both by phone and in writing, to be informed of the planned actions and timelines. Each time information has been requested from the Government, the response has been that the situation is under control.
However, in recent days, concern has intensified due to the detection of possible stains and odors related to the presence of fuel. Following these warnings, the Ertzaintza (Basque Police) and the local police have also visited the site.
Given the ongoing situation and the increased public concern, the Orio Town Council has decided to take a further step. After informal follow-up, and considering that the management of the ship's condition falls under the competence of the Basque Government's Ports Department, the Orio Town Council registered a formal information request on November 2nd. In it, detailed information is requested regarding the ship's current status, analyses and actions carried out to date, potential environmental risks, preventive measures taken, and the planned timelines for refloating or relocating the vessel.
The Orio Town Council has reiterated the need for a swift resolution to the situation, prioritizing citizen safety and the protection of the Oria River. It will also continue to liaise with the competent institutions and monitor the situation to provide updated information to the public.
