The Vital Interconnection of Alqueva to Santa Clara and Odelouca Dams
The interconnection of Alqueva with the Santa Clara and Odelouca dams is deemed essential for the future of the Southwest Alentejo and the Algarve, according to the mayors of Odemira and Aljezur. Hélder Guerreiro, the mayor of Odemira, emphasized that this connection is crucial for the region's sustainability during the meeting titled "Water for the Future".
Insufficient Water Supply
Guerreiro pointed out that the current water inflows in local reservoirs are insufficient to meet the demands of the population, tourism, agriculture, and industry. He stressed the importance of seeking alternative water sources, suggesting that the Alqueva interconnection could be a viable solution.
Manifesto for Water Availability
During the event, 34 public and private entities signed a manifesto advocating for enhanced water availability in the Southwest Alentejo and Algarve. The document, titled "Water for the Future", will be submitted to the government as part of the interministerial strategy "Water that Unites", set to be presented by the government in late 2024.
Key Supporters
Among the signatories are municipalities from the Alentejo and Algarve regions, including Odemira, Ourique, Aljezur, Lagoa, Lagos, Monchique, and Vila do Bispo, as well as organizations like Lusomorango and the National Federation of Irrigators. Regional tourism bodies from Alentejo, Ribatejo, and Algarve also support the initiative.
Recommendations for Water Management
The manifesto calls for strengthening Alqueva as a major reservoir for water regulation in southern Portugal and establishing Santa Clara as a hub for distributing water to the Southwest Alentejo and Barlavento Algarve. It advocates for the Alqueva-Santa Clara-Odelouca interconnection, which is already linked to the Funcho-Arade system, while noting the need for connection to the Bravura Dam in Algarve.
Economic Implications
Guerreiro warns that failing to implement this project could lead to a significant contraction of economic activities in the region, highlighting the urgency for action to secure water resources.
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