The Segura River has been severely contaminated by the uncontrolled use of a powerful herbicide, Bentazone. The contamination was registered along its upper course between Hellín and Calasparra in the province of Albacete.
This contamination has led to dangerously high levels of the chemical in the river, making the water unsuitable for human consumption in many areas, particularly between the point of discharge and the river’s mouth. The Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura (CHS) has reported the contamination to the Guardia Civil’s Seprona unit. Furthermore, the situation is causing serious concerns about the water supply in both the Guadalentín Valley and parts of the province of Alicante.
Uncontrolled herbicide use
Bentazone, a commonly used herbicide, is not banned, but its concentration in drinking water is legally restricted. A royal decree passed in March set the maximum allowed level of Bentazone in water for human consumption at 0.1 parts per million (ppm). However, recent measurements from the Segura River have shown concentrations as high as 16 ppm, far exceeding legal limits.
According to Juan Cascales, the delegate from the Mancomunidad de Canales del Taibilla, the water purification plants do not have the capacity to reduce Bentazone levels to within legal limits. Only one of the six treatment plants, located in Campotéjar, is equipped with an ozone injection system capable of breaking down the herbicide.
Water supply at risk
While alternative water sources are being utilised to mitigate the contamination, such as water stored in the Algeciras reservoir prior to the contamination, these reserves are nearly depleted. Current reserves are expected to last only two more weeks. Additionally, other key reservoirs, such as Mallés, also have high levels of Bentazone, rendering them almost unusable for water treatment.
Despite the severity of the situation, Cascales assured the public that the water being distributed remains safe for consumption. However, the future of the water supply in the region remains uncertain as authorities work to manage this crisis.
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