Tenerife Launches €160k Los Realejos Firebreak Repair
The Cabildo de Tenerife has begun a €160,000, three-month project to repair a crucial two-kilometer firebreak in Los Realejos, damaged by a devastating 2022 fire, to enhance its safety and durability for future fire prevention.
On July 21, 2022, a fire started in Los Realejos. Within days, it grew into one of the most destructive fires the Canary Islands had seen in years. Now, over three years later, the Natural Environment department of the Cabildo de Tenerife (Tenerife Island Council) is starting work to repair a firebreak. This firebreak, located just below the most damaged area, was itself harmed by the flames, according to Los Realejos City Council. The fire was so intense that it burned for nearly 20 days, destroying over 2,000 hectares of forest.
This particular section of the firebreak is considered one of the island's most important. It stretches for almost two kilometers, and the repair work will cost over 160,000 euros. The main goal is to make the surface of this route safer and more durable. Stabilizing the surface makes up over 98% of the project's budget. A preliminary study found that the surface is damaged by trenches, dips, and several landslides. The study also points out another significant issue: silt building up on the existing stabilized layer. This creates a slippery surface during the rainy season, making the track impossible for vehicles to use.
The section of the firebreak being repaired is located on the ridge of Tigaiga's eastern slope, between Icod el Alto and Piedra de Los Pastores. An environmental impact study for the project confirms that the work is compatible with the surrounding area. The area features humid pine forests, laurel forests, and heathland, along with a rich variety of native wildlife. It's an ecologically sensitive area and also designated as a Site of Community Importance (SCI) within the Corona Forestal Natural Park. Additionally, these mountains are public land belonging to the municipality of Los Realejos.
To repair the firebreak – a crucial tool for fighting future fires – workers will apply slaked lime. This acts like a natural cement, protecting against erosion and wear over time. A final layer of compacted aggregate will then be added, providing a finish that blends with the environment and resists erosion. The repair work is expected to take three months and comes with a one-year warranty, as outlined in the project plan.
They will use 20 kilograms of slaked lime per square meter, along with the necessary aggregates. A 12-centimeter-thick layer of natural sub-base will also be laid on the track, which is, on average, four meters wide. Laboratory tests have already determined the correct proportions of each material for the Los Realejos firebreak. The design will also maintain specific banking and slopes, with an 8% slope on curves and 4% on straight sections.