Valsequillo Declares Emergency to Repair Sewage Network After Therese Storm

The Valsequillo de Gran Canaria City Council has activated an emergency decree to restore damaged infrastructure in the San Roque and San Miguel ravines.

Image of a damaged sewage pipe in a Canary Islands ravine.
IA

Image of a damaged sewage pipe in a Canary Islands ravine.

The Valsequillo de Gran Canaria City Council has declared an emergency to immediately begin repair works on the sewage network in the San Roque and San Miguel ravines, severely affected by storm Therese in March.

The municipal decision aims to restore the sanitation system, which suffered structural collapses, material displacement, and the destruction of collectors and access points in various areas. The primary goal is to ensure wastewater evacuation, public health, and prevent uncontrolled discharges into the natural environment.
The total investment for repairs in these two ravines exceeds 3.1 million euros. Specifically, the restoration of the collector and access road in the San Miguel Ravine has an estimated budget of 2,020,550 euros, while works in the San Roque Ravine amount to 1,171,157 euros. The local government is also working on a third intervention in the Los Mocanes Ravine.
The overall assessment of damages caused by storm Therese in the municipality totals 5,683,707 euros. This amount will be 50% funded by the Spanish Government, as announced by the minister during his visit to Valsequillo.

"These works are essential to protect the health of the population and the natural environment of the municipality."

the mayor
The emergency processing allows for faster contracting periods and immediate commencement of works. Technical reports warn of the risk of uncontrolled discharges due to broken collectors, which could create unsanitary conditions and affect public water resources. Furthermore, the ground instability after the storm necessitates rapid action to prevent further rainfall from worsening damages and increasing repair costs.
Works in the San Roque Ravine have already begun, and intervention in the San Miguel Ravine is expected to start during May. Both operations will require heavy machinery and specialized personnel due to the geotechnical complexity of the area.

"The recovery of sanitation is key to preserving the environment, ensuring the viability of the primary sector, and conserving natural spaces linked to hiking and public enjoyment."

the first deputy mayor

"The municipal priority is to restore the system's operability in both ravines as soon as possible and ensure basic infrastructure for public health and the well-being of Valsequillo."

the Services councilor