DR1 Daily News - Dominican Republic

Medical experts and environmental advocates are sounding the alarm over a sharp increase in respiratory and gastrointestinal diseases in the southern region, attributing the health decline to heavy metal microparticles and toxic gases emitted by floating power barges and coal-fired energy infrastructure.

During a panel discussion held on 9 March 2026 at the Héctor J. Díaz Cultural Center, Dr. Senén Caba, former president of the Dominican Medical College (CMD), presented a grim outlook for the residents of Los Negros and surrounding areas.

According to Dr. Caba, the power generation barges anchored in Los Negros are releasing high concentrations of carbon dioxide and fine particulate matter. These pollutants are directly linked to a spike in chronic conditions among the local population, including:• Chronic bronchitis and asthma: Irritants from fuel...