BOGOTA – Ecuador’s government has recently taken steps towards dismantling infrastructure on a controversial oil drilling block in Yasuni National Park. This action comes as a court-imposed deadline looms for completion, with Friday being the final day set by the court. The Ministry for Energy and Mines announced the closure of the Ishpingo B-56 well, the first of 247 wells in the 43-ITT block to be shut down. Despite a historic referendum a year ago to halt oil drilling in the national park, the Waorani Indigenous people and various rights groups remain concerned about the lack of progress.

Last week, the government requested a five-year and five-month extension from the constitutional court for the state-run oil company Petroecuador to cease operations and vacate the area. Antonio Goncalves, the head of the ministry, emphasized the importance of complying with the referendum’s decision and the technical challenges involved in closing the ITT block.

The closure of all wells is expected to be completed by December 2029, according to previous government statements. However, concerns persist regarding the government’s commitment to meeting this timeline and the environmental impact of the oil drilling activities in the region.

The struggle to protect Yasuni National Park highlights the delicate balance between economic development and environmental conservation. With Yasuni being one of the most biodiverse regions globally and home to Indigenous communities like the Waorani, Taromenane, and Tagaeri, the stakes are high in preserving this natural treasure.