Water off in Ecuador’s most populated city after spill

QUITO, Ecuador – Authorities have turned off the spigots in Guayaquil after a fuel spill contaminated the water in Ecuador’s most populated city.

National Water Secretary Alexis Sanchez told a news conference Wednesday that the decision to turn off the water was made after Ecuador’s potable water agency reported the spill may have tainted the water that it treats for drinking.

The water was cut off starting Tuesday afternoon after a company spilled diesel fuel on the shores of the Daule River. Guayaquil Mayor Jaime Nebot says the spill was not reported and authorities are investigating the incident.

Authorities are now treating more water for drinking and service will be slowly restored to the city’s 2.3 million residents.

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