19-year-old driver seriously injured after car plunges into Arinsal River
Firefighters have so far detected no significant fuel leak
A car with Andorran number plates plunged into the Arinsal River on Tuesday afternoon, near the entrance to the village. The cause of the accident remains unknown.
Emergency services received the alert at around 4 p.m. Firefighters and Environment Department personnel attended the scene amid concerns that the vehicle could leak fuel or other hydrocarbons into the river.
The driver, a 19-year-old man, was helped out of the vehicle by workers from a nearby construction site. They pulled him from the car and helped him up to the road before emergency crews intervened.
The young man was subsequently transported by the emergency medical service (SUM) to receive medical attention, although initial reports suggested that he had not sustained serious injuries.
According to RTVA, the main concern following the accident was the potential environmental impact of the vehicle being in the river.
Containment boom to remain in place for at least two days
Firefighters have so far detected no significant fuel leak, and the situation is reportedly under control. Nevertheless, precautionary measures have been taken to prevent any spill from spreading downstream.
Under the established protocol, an oil containment boom will remain in the river for at least two days.
Both fire engines from La Massana fire station took part in the operation, alongside Environment Department personnel.
Removing the vehicle poses an additional challenge because of its position in the riverbed. A heavy-duty crane will be needed to lift it out of the river.
