EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — A 36-inch wastewater main line break occurred on Friday, March 14, at the Roberto Bustamante Wastewater Treatment Plant near Socorro in a non-residential area, according to El Paso Water.
The break happened at 10:15 a.m. at the water plant located at 10001 Pan American Dr. The spill was isolated at 11 a.m., according to EP Water.
According to EP Water, the wastewater main line was damaged due to construction at the plant.
EP Water officials confirmed that the spilled wastewater exceeded 100,000 gallons. Currently, the wastewater is no longer flowing out of the main line and crews are working to make repairs.
In addition, no water or wastewater services were affected, and EP Water says the public drinking water supply is not at risk.
According to EP Water, the following is required language from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality for a wastewater discharge event of this size:
“Although it was determined that the public water supply was not affected, EPWater customers or persons who purchase water from another public water supply may contact their water supply
distributor to determine if the water is safe for personal use.
“Persons using private drinking water supply wells located within 1/2-mile of the spill site or within the potentially affected area should use only water that has been distilled or boiled at a rolling boil for at least one minute for all personal uses including drinking, cooking, bathing, and tooth brushing.
“Individuals with private water wells should have their well water tested and disinfected, if necessary, prior to discontinuing distillation or boiling.
“The public should avoid contact with wastewater or soil in the area affected by the discharge. If
contact is made, it is advised to bathe and wash clothes thoroughly as soon as possible.”
For customers who have questions about the wastewater spill, you can contact the Wastewater Systems Division Manager Angel Bustamante at (915) 594-5401.
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