Investigation Launched into Wastewater Spill in Puerto de la Cruz
The Cabildo de Tenerife has initiated an investigation into a wastewater spill at the Punta Brava facilities in Puerto de la Cruz and is assessing potential liabilities. The inquiry concerns Aqualia, the company responsible for the plant’s operation and maintenance. It remains unclear whether the substance reached the storm drainage system and potentially made its way to the sea.
The Insular Water Council (CIAT) has requested all relevant information from Aqualia regarding the incident, including measures taken and compliance with safety, maintenance, and environmental protection protocols.
Officials are urging a prompt determination of the spill’s source, the volume of the substance released, and the circumstances surrounding the incident.
One key issue for the investigation is whether the product left the facility. The Cabildo has acknowledged conflicting reports about whether it reached the storm drains and subsequently the ocean. The Insular Water Council will refrain from drawing conclusions until inspections and tests by competent authorities are complete.
The investigation is conducted under Article 17 of the Sanctioning Regulation in Water Matters, allowing for provisional assessments of damages and necessary circumstances before starting a formal procedure. The Cabildo views any incident threatening facility safety or environmental integrity as particularly serious.
Local police have inspected the site, and officers from the Civil Guard’s Nature Protection Service (Seprona) have been involved in investigating the incident. Meanwhile, the Insular Water Council will keep its file open until the situation is fully understood, protocols followed, and responsibilities identified.
There is also speculation about the possibility of intentional damage to the pipeline. Aqualia has suggested this could be a case of sabotage, a theory reported by news outlets. However, the Cabildo stresses that all angles are being explored, and no conclusions are being drawn until the investigation concludes.
Reports indicate that approximately 1,000 litres of a mix consisting of 75% water and 25% ferric chloride were spilled. Aqualia has indicated the potential for external interference, but further details will be clarified through ongoing investigations.
The Cabildo has reminded Aqualia of its responsibility to ensure the safe operation of the facilities and to meet its obligations. Should the investigation reveal any failures, the Cabildo promises to enforce accountability and implement necessary corrective measures.
The Insular Water Council will continue to gather documentation and collaborate with security forces to ascertain the origin, extent, and potential consequences of the Punta Brava spill.
