Tenerife Launches Investigation Into Chemical Spill at Puerto de la Cruz Wastewater Plant
Tenerife authorities have launched an investigation into a 1,000-liter ferric chloride spill at the Punta Brava wastewater plant, sparking political tension over transparency and the management of the island's coastal water quality.
Tenerife’s water management is back in the spotlight following a spill of 1,000 liters of ferric chloride at the Punta Brava wastewater plant in Puerto de la Cruz. The incident, which took place last Saturday night, has sparked a dispute between local and island authorities over transparency, while experts work to determine the environmental impact of the chemical solution.
The Tenerife Island Water Council (Ciatf) has launched an investigation into Aqualia, the company that operates and maintains the plant. The inquiry aims to trace the source of the spill, confirm whether the chemical reached the storm drains or the ocean, and check if safety protocols were followed. Aqualia has been given 72 hours to submit a full report on the incident and the steps taken to contain it.
There is still uncertainty about how the spill occurred. While Aqualia initially suggested sabotage, this has not been confirmed, and technical teams are still analyzing the situation. The Puerto de la Cruz City Council has formally requested that the Cabildo—which owns the facility—provide all technical documentation, citing a need for clarity following conflicting reports about the event.
The incident has intensified political debate over the quality of Tenerife’s bathing waters. The Socialist Group in the Cabildo has criticized island president Rosa Dávila, arguing that recent contamination cases in areas like Granadilla de Abona and Los Realejos contradict her claims that the island’s coastline is in excellent condition. The opposition is now calling for a major review of sanitation planning and investment, arguing that these recurring beach closures are no longer isolated incidents.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on whether Aqualia will face penalties and how effectively the island’s leadership can manage its critical infrastructure. Meanwhile, local residents remain concerned, seeking clear answers about the safety of their coastline.