The Adeje City Council has announced the temporary closure of La Pinta beach following alterations identified in the microbiological parameters regarding the quality of its bathing waters. As a precaution, bathing has been prohibited at this popular location in Puerto Colón until new test results confirming the safety of the water for swimmers are obtained.
This recent closure comes after earlier incidents tied to water quality at La Pinta. Just weeks ago, the beach was shut for two days due to the detection of enterococci bacteria at concerning levels. During that instance, local authorities opted to restrict access to the beach to mitigate any health risks, considering that enterococci serve as indicators of faecal contamination in the water, suggesting the potential presence of harmful microorganisms.
While enterococci are normally present in the intestines of humans and animals, they can lead to various infections when individuals are exposed to contaminated water. Contact with these bacteria may result in skin, eye, and respiratory tract infections, in addition to urinary and gastrointestinal issues.
Previous investigations into the pollution sources at La Pinta have dismissed any faults with the municipal facilities in Adeje. Instead, considerations were given to the likelihood that recent maritime conditions, characterised by rough seas, could have led to a leak from an island pumping station or an accidental discharge from a nearby anchored vessel.
Adeje Town Hall has reiterated that the current closure will remain enforced until fresh tests validate that the water quality complies with safety standards. The results of these assessments are anticipated to be made available in the upcoming days, at which point a decision will be made regarding the reopening of the beach to the public.
