An unusual harmony reigns over the three political parties as the PP (Partido Popular – Conservatives) and the IU (Left Coalition) support an amendment presented by the regional Socialist Party (PSOE) to suspend the project which would divert water from the Cenajo reservoir away from Calasparra’s rivers.
The amendment proposes the elimination of the pipelines which, ecologists claim, could reduce the caudal of the River Segura by some 35%.
However, as the project is likely to attract European funding the Department of the Environment has warned: “We cannot permit ourselves the luxury of losing funds destined to resolve problems with drinking water supplies and which affect the greater part of the region.”
The department further explained that it was necessary to ensure drinking water to Yecla and Jumilla, especially during droughts, and to ensure the quality of the water.
“It is essential to protect the public’s health,” according to the Department, “and solve the problems that occur when chlorine at the water treatment centres is mixed with organic matter from the rivers.”
The PSOE amendment also proposes the matter is referred to a Commission involving all the affected public administrations, the agricultural sector and other associations for a review of possible alternatives to the pipeline.
