Faro, Portugal - The Algarve water company, Águas do Algarve, has launched an international public tender for the "Reinforcement of Water Supply to the Algarve – Pomarão Water Intake Solution," with a base price of €101 million. The project aims to increase the region's water supply by drawing water from the Guadiana River.

The tender, divided into three lots, has an estimated execution time of two years.

"This is an investment aimed exclusively at meeting the needs of water for human consumption," stated Minister for the Environment and Energy, Maria da Graça Carvalho.

The government believes the project will enhance the Algarve's water supply resilience by 30 cubic hectometres per year. However, the project has faced opposition, with lawsuits filed against it due to concerns about potential environmental damage to the local ecosystem and communities.

The Pomarão Water Intake Solution involves drawing surface water from the Guadiana River near the village of Mesquita and constructing a pipeline to the Odeleite reservoir in the Algarve.

The Minister emphasized the importance of an agreement with Spain under the Albufeira Convention, which allows for the sharing of Guadiana River water.

Concerns and Controversies

While the government views this project as a crucial step in addressing the Algarve's water scarcity, many experts argue that it is not the most effective solution. Concerns have been raised about the potential environmental impact of the water intake on the Guadiana River ecosystem.

Lawsuits have been filed against the project, alleging potential harm to the local environment and communities.

Alternative Solutions

The government is also pursuing other water supply solutions for the Algarve, including the construction of a desalination plant, which has also faced legal challenges.

Background

The Algarve region frequently experiences water shortages, and the government has been actively seeking solutions to address this issue. The Pomarão Water Intake Solution is part of a broader effort to improve water security in the region.