Farmers in the Baixo Alentejo region are voicing strong opposition to the government’s proposal to supply water from the Alqueva reservoir to the Algarve. This plan, announced by the Minister of Environment and Energy, Maria da Graça Carvalho, has sparked concerns among local agricultural leaders about the sustainability of water resources in their region.
Background of the Proposal
The proposal to connect the Alqueva reservoir to the Algarve involves linking it to the Santa Clara reservoir in Alentejo and then to the Bravura reservoir in the Algarve. This initiative aims to address the water scarcity issues faced by the Algarve, especially during the dry season.
Farmers’ Concerns
Local farmers have expressed their discontent as they argue that the Alqueva reservoir was designed to address the water deficit in Alentejo, not to serve the needs of the Algarve with Baixo residents warning that the region could face more drought years in the near future, making it crucial to focus on increasing the water supply to Alqueva rather than diverting it elsewhere.
Government’s Justification
The government plans to enhance the resilience of the Algarve’s water supply through this project, which is part of a broader strategy to improve water management in the region. The minister also mentioned that the project includes the construction of two river reserves, which are expected to play a vital role in water conservation efforts.
As the situation develops, it will be essential for both the government and local farmers to engage in constructive dialogue to find a sustainable solution that addresses the needs of all parties involved. The outcome of this proposal could set a precedent for future water management policies in Portugal, highlighting the importance of local resource management in the face of regional demands.
