A 400,000-gallon storage tank at the Ingeniero Roberto Reyna potable water plant in Chitré, Herrera province, has been taken out of operation after seismic activity caused a fissure in the structure. The Institute of National Aqueducts and Sewers (Idaan) confirmed the damage on October 14, 2026, following a detailed technical inspection conducted alongside the Fire Department.
The tank was emptied as a precautionary measure and will remain offline while repair actions are coordinated. Water supply continues through a temporary bypass connection that channels treated water directly into the distribution network, officials said.
Emergency Response at the Potable Water Plant
Idaan Director Antonio Tercero González toured the facility to oversee the response. Crews are now working to interconnect a 12-inch line from Marejoba to the plant’s direct supply system, an effort aimed at stabilizing service along Chitré’s outer ring road.
The affected infrastructure is more than 50 years old. Idaan stated that its teams are concentrating on maintaining water delivery while addressing damage caused by the earthquake and its aftershocks across multiple aging facilities.
Tanker Trucks and Distribution Points Activated
Residents in the affected zones can access water through tanker trucks deployed by the utility. Self-service water points have also been established at Pozo Los Milagros, Parque Forestal, Feria Ganadera, and El Ciabel, with additional locations operating throughout Chitré.
The bypass system is functioning as an interim measure. Technicians have not provided a timeline for repairing the damaged tank, but the utility indicated that coordination for the structural fix is already underway.
Regional Infrastructure Strain from Seismic Activity
The earthquake’s impact extends beyond the potable water plant. The closure of the bridge over the Oria River has complicated the transport of machinery needed for the rice harvest, according to regional reports. Agricultural logistics in Herrera province face delays as authorities assess structural safety.
Idaan’s management emphasized that the priority remains uninterrupted potable water service for Chitré residents. The combination of bypass operations, tanker deliveries, and fixed distribution points represents the utility’s strategy to bridge the gap until permanent repairs are completed.