New Water Management Initiatives in Algarve
As part of the government’s "Water that Unites" plan aimed at mitigating drought effects and improving water management in Portugal, new dam projects are underway in the Algarve region. Macário Correia, President of the Sotavento Algarve Irrigation Plan Beneficiaries Association (ABPRSA), confirmed the awarding of the Alportel dam project to Coba – Engineering and Environment Consultants, SA.
This project is part of a larger strategy to combat both floods and droughts. Recently, PÚBLICO reported that the government is preparing a significant intervention plan for dams across the region.
Benefits of the New Dams
The construction of the Foupana and Alportel dams promises to provide three times the water capacity of a desalination plant at about half the cost. This would greatly enhance water availability in the Algarve. Correia emphasized that the Alportel dam is crucial for flood management, collecting runoff from the Caldeirão mountain range and will be located just seven kilometers from Tavira.
Historical Context and Future Plans
The Alportel dam has been in the planning stages for nearly a century. In the 1980s, local leaders recognized its importance for supplying water to the central Algarve. The project is expected to hold around 10hm³ of water, which could account for 40% of agricultural water usage in the region. The estimated cost for this project is €350,000, with a total budget for both dams projected between €50 and €60 million.
The Alportel dam will not only aid in flood prevention but will also enhance water supply efficiency, allowing farmers to source water locally rather than relying on distant reserves.
Recent Weather Concerns
Recent heavy rains in Tavira highlighted the need for such infrastructure. The region narrowly avoided severe flooding, showcasing the urgency for effective water management solutions. Vítor Guerreiro, the mayor of São Brás de Alportel, has called for discussions with the Minister of Environment to ensure continued support for these vital projects.
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