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Investigation Underway as Series of Deadly Explosions in Mexico Raise Questions About French Gas Giant Engie's Safety Record
A series of fatal explosions in Mexico has sparked an investigation into the safety record of French gas giant Engie, which has been operating in the country for several years. The explosions, which occurred in the states of Tamaulipas and Veracruz, have resulted in the deaths of at least 20 people and injured many more.
The first explosion occurred on December 10, 2024, at a gas pipeline in the town of Reynosa, Tamaulipas. The blast killed 10 people and injured 15 others. Just days later, on December 13, 2024, another explosion occurred at a gas processing plant in the city of Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz. The blast killed 10 people and injured 20 others.
The Mexican government has launched an investigation into the explosions, which is being led by the country's Attorney General's Office. The investigation is expected to examine the safety record of Engie, which has been operating in Mexico since 2015.
Engie has released a statement expressing its condolences to the families of the victims and stating that it is cooperating fully with the investigation. However, the company has also faced criticism from some quarters, with accusations that it has prioritized profits over safety.
The explosions have also raised questions about the regulatory framework governing the energy sector in Mexico. The country's energy regulator, the National Hydrocarbons Commission (CNH), has faced criticism for its handling of safety inspections and its failure to enforce safety regulations.
The investigation into the explosions is ongoing, and it is likely to take several weeks or even months to determine the cause of the blasts. However, the incident has already sparked a national debate about the safety of Mexico's energy infrastructure and the need for greater regulation and oversight.
- _Engie's Operations in Mexico:_ Engie has been operating in Mexico since 2015, and has invested heavily in the country's energy sector.
- _Safety Record:_ Engie has faced criticism in the past for its safety record, including a 2020 explosion at a gas plant in the state of Chihuahua.
- _Regulatory Framework:_ The regulatory framework governing the energy sector in Mexico has faced criticism for its lack of effectiveness in enforcing safety regulations.
- _Investigation Launched:_ The Mexican government has launched an investigation into the explosions, which is being led by the country's Attorney General's Office.
- _Engie's Response:_ Engie has released a statement expressing its condolences to the families of the victims and stating that it is cooperating fully with the investigation.
- _Criticism of Regulatory Framework:_ The explosions have raised questions about the regulatory framework governing the energy sector in Mexico, with some critics arguing that it is inadequate and ineffective.
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