The coastal area of La Listada, situated in Arico, has experienced significant water supply issues in recent years, impacting more than 230 residences. The problem dates back to 2016 when inhabitants of streets such as Barroso and Los Realejos, close to the shoreline, started facing challenges with water pressure and supply.
Over the past three years, the circumstances have deteriorated due to rising demand and ageing infrastructure. An assessment by Arico City Council uncovered that the pipe network has a considerable accumulation of lime, hindering the flow of water and leading to persistent supply difficulties.
While a comprehensive solution involving a full renovation of the pipe network is awaited, the municipal authority is now announcing a temporary measure to ease the supply shortfall.
Additional pipe
The Arico government, under the leadership of socialist mayor Olivia Delgado, has devised a provisional solution to alleviate the crisis. Following a thorough investigation, the technicians concluded that the most effective option is to install an extra pipeline to enhance pressure and ensure service to the affected households.
According to Delgado, the project has already been estimated at approximately 40,000 euros, and there is an expectation that the proposal will be accepted, allowing for the tender process to commence as swiftly as possible.
Although this initiative is temporary, the mayor emphasises its aim to mitigate the impact of the deficiencies in the water network while awaiting the initiation of the definitive project. “The Government of the Canary Islands has disregarded Arico, despite this work being included in the annual budget, with a provision of 400,000 euros. Now, the council must address the solution within a cooperation plan with the Cabildo,” remarked Delgado.
She also reiterated her team’s commitment to implement these temporary measures. “The City Council is fulfilling its responsibilities and working to resolve the issues,” she stated.
The mayor convened a meeting with around 150 residents on the 19th, during which a delegation from the Arico City Council, led by technicians and engineers, briefed the residents on the forthcoming actions.
Complaints from the neighbours
Carmelo Guillén, president of the La Listada residents’ association, expressed regret that this issue has been troubling residents for years. “During peak periods such as Easter or summer, we find ourselves without water supply,” he stated. Guillén explained that the pipes, which are over 30 years old, are in a state of considerable disrepair, exacerbating the situation.
In 2020, residents initiated a petition to urge the city council for action, but progress has been, according to him, sluggish.
“In August, we ran dry once again, and after years of seeking solutions, the problem finally gained media attention,” he detailed.
Some residents, faced with the absence of immediate remedies, have chosen to purchase water canisters and pumps to ensure an adequate water supply in their homes. “One neighbour, after returning home at 10pm post-work, had to go to the beach to shower and transport water in buckets to her residence,” complained another local.
Criticism from the opposition
“At that time, we sought a comprehensive solution to eradicate the problem entirely,” he asserted.
The nationalist party spokesperson further elaborated that, from an administrative perspective, his government did not receive approval from any relevant bodies; thus, he indicates, “we were unable to resolve this issue.”
Víctor García also questioned the necessity for temporary solutions while the town hall’s finances remain robust. “The situation has a simpler resolution. The municipal funds could support a greater investment,” concluded the municipal spokesperson.
