Pemex: In Control of Kab-121

Pemex has gained total control of the Kab-121 well in the Campeche Sound in the Gulf of Mexico. By fabricating and installing an ancillary floor for the Kab-101 platform, and replacing the damaged well valves using the crane barge Titan 2, the company completed cementation of the well and stopped the hydrocarbon spill.

After extinguishing the fire in the first phase of construction on the Kab-121 well, Pemex began work on the oil leak that was caused when the jackup rig Usumacinta collided with the Kab-101 platform in October, an accident that caused an emergency evacuation and killed 22 workers.

On Dec. 14, 2007, Rigzone reported that Pemex contracted Global Industries for U.S. $40 million to dismantle both the Usumacinta and the Kab-101 platform, using the Titan 2. The Titan 2 had been working on Pemex's Ixtal Project when the accident occurred, and the vessel was involved in the rescue efforts. Since the Titan 2 has been moved to the Kab-121 well, Pemex has contacted Global's Shawnee to complete the work at Ixtal.

Pemex plans to conduct flights over the area where the spill occurred, offshore the Mexican state of Tabasco, and the company is monitoring satellite views of the area as well.

Pemex has instituted investigations to understand the cause of the accident, in addition to investigations directed by governmental groups.

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