For over a year now, the inhabitants of the villages of Anaga have been eagerly awaiting the fulfilment of the commitment made by the Cabildo of Tenerife to improve the roads and paths that run through the core of the Rural Park. Specifically, they are concerned about the trails starting from the summit to Afur, such as Roque Alonso and its junction with Juana Perdoma, or the one from Pico del Inglés through Los Toscales to Los Lavaderos.
The rural community association is insisting on an immediate meeting with the authorities to address this issue, warning that they will refuse to participate in any future activities organized by the Cabildo or the City Council of Santa Cruz, including events like the Biosphere Festival or ethnographic tours. They claim that whilst Anaga may appear stunning to visitors, residents feel increasingly neglected and overlooked.
Residents express their frustration, stating, “We have been waiting a year for improvements on the path leading to Los Lavaderos, which we were told back in October 2023 was being repaired for the Biosfet. It’s now May 2024, and nothing has been done.”
Frustrated with what they describe as a “scandalous” situation, the association has formally requested a meeting with the Minister of the Natural Environment, Marina Yael, along with the Directorate of Territorial and Environmental Management and Planning, and the technical team of Environmental Management, to address the issues concerning the network of trails in Anaga Massif.
The residents demand clarity on the contract arrangements with the company responsible for the road and trail renovations, as well as insights into the execution process. They are also querying why the maintenance crews only focus on clearing vegetation above ground level, neglecting to clean the drainage systems, which subsequently get clogged with debris, leading to destruction whenever it rains as the water cannot flow freely.
Additionally, the community is worried about the lack of communication regarding the thermophilic forest restoration initiative within the Biosphere Reserve. Residents were promised opportunities to assist in these efforts, but despite many applications submitted, no one has been contacted for participation.
Lastly, residents express their disappointment and confusion over the sudden halt of training courses conducted by the Anaga Rural Park office. These courses have been instrumental in supporting the local population over the past year, and their suspension has left many feeling lost.
