A new investigative podcast, Pipeline, is bringing international attention to a catastrophic but little-known tragedy that shook Trinidad and Tobago.
The series, hosted by journalist Isabelle Stanley, tells the story of the Paria pipeline disaster, in which four divers died after being trapped in an underwater pipeline. Despite its gravity, the event has remained largely hidden from global view – until now.
Described as “explosive” and “forensic,” Pipeline uncovers allegations of criminal negligence, failed rescue efforts, and deep-rooted political connections.
It’s a story of tragedy, cover-up and survival, told with unprecedented access and first-hand accounts.
At the heart of the podcast is the sole survivor, Christopher Boodram, speaking publicly for the first time. There’s also GoPro audio from inside the pipe, which captures the men’s final hours.
Autopsy findings suggest the men were alive inside the pipe for hours and one of them potentially surviving for nearly two days.
Rescue efforts were reportedly blocked, with armed coastguard personnel ordered by Paria, part of the state-owned oil company, to prevent any attempt to save the trapped divers.
To date, no one has been held accountable, and the families of the victims have received no compensation.
Revelations from the series include allegations of deliberate obstruction of rescue attempts, ignored safety warnings and protocol failures, plus close ties between oil executives and senior politicians.
Stanley’s investigation takes her from grieving relatives to the highest levels of government and corporate power, as she asks the question: why were those four men left to die?
The podcast also explores the potential political ramifications of the disaster. Former Attorney General Anand Ramlogan claims: “One of the factors that would have influenced their decision to call the election so early was to pre-empt this podcast series.”
In a twist that adds urgency to the unfolding story, one of the series’ key contributors has now been elected Prime Minister and is committed to get justice for the victims’ families.
From DMG Media, Pipeline is an active investigation, with new leads emerging and political change underway.
Episodes one and two are available on all podcast platforms from today, Thursday 22nd May.
