The new research podcast, Pipeline, is drawing international attention for the devastating but lesser-known tragedy that shakes Trinidad and Tobago.
Hosted by journalist Isabel Stanley, the series tells the story of the Paria Pipeline's disaster. Despite gravity, the event has remained largely hidden from a global perspective up until now.
The pipeline, called “explosive” and “forensics,” uncovers allegations of criminal negligence, failure to rescue operations, and deep-rooted political ties.
This is a tale of unprecedented access and tragedy, concealment and survival told in-person accounts.
At the heart of the podcast is the only survivor Christopher Boudrum, who speaks publicly for the first time. There is also GoPro audio from inside the pipe, capturing the final time of the man.
Autopsy findings suggest that the man has lived in the pipe for hours, with one of them likely to survive nearly two days.
Rescue efforts reportedly were blocked and armed coast guard officials ordered by Paia, part of the state-owned oil company, prevented attempts to save trapped divers.
To date, no one has been held accountable, and the victim's family has not received compensation.
Revelation from the series includes allegations of intentional obstruction of rescue attempts, neglected safety warnings and obstacles to protocols, as well as close ties between oil executives and senior politicians.
Stanley's investigation takes her from relatives grieving at the highest level of government and corporate power, as she asks questions. Why did these four men die?
The podcast also explores the potential political consequences of disasters. Former Attorney General Anand Lamlogan said, “One factor that would have influenced their decision to call the election early was to get ahead of this podcast series.”
With a twist that adds urgency to the unfolding story, one of the series' key contributors is elected prime minister and promises to get justice for the victims' families.
From DMG Media, the pipeline is an active investigation, new leads are emerging and political change is ongoing.
Episodes 1 and 2 will be available on all podcast platforms starting today, Thursday, May 22nd.
