Natural gas leak causes "fountain" in sea of T&T; repairs to be done by Thursday

An aerial view of the "fountain" created by the leaking gas

Gas fumes from a leaking undersea natural gas pipeline in South Trinidad is sending gas fumes into neighbouring communities and creating a hazard.

Media reports say several villages in Guayaguayare area have been affected by the leak that developed on Sunday and many people have complained of feeling unwell.

The National gas company, which owns the 24-inch line, is working on repairing it as soon as possible.

Authorities have warned people to stay clear of the "fountain" in the sea. This is affecting more than one hundred fishermen who work in the area.

Minister of Energy, Kevin Ramnarine, is monitoring the situation. He told the Guardian newspaper the pipeline has been shut down to allow divers to check the damage and repair the line.

The minister said he expects the work will be completed by Thursday. He confirmed that the gas company has a vast pipeline system of over 1,000 km of which 198 km is underwater.

He said the company has the expertise to deal with the situation.