The severe overexploitation of water resources in Andalucia has sparked growing concern among local communities. Concerns leading to a significant protest in the town of Húescar (Granada). More than 800 people gathered this past weekend to voice their outrage over the unsustainable and illegal extraction of water from the Fuencaliente spring, which they fear is driving the region towards a critical water shortage.
Groundwater, the world’s largest source of fresh water, plays a crucial role in sustaining rivers, springs, lakes, and wetlands. However, the failure to manage these aquifers responsibly is causing them to deplete at an alarming rate, both in Andalucia and globally. In Húescar, the dwindling water levels have led to increasing tensions between local farmers and large agricultural enterprises, who are accused of siphoning off more than their fair share of water.
Farmers sound the alarm
The Fuencaliente spring, a vital source of water for local agriculture, has seen its flow reduced from 300 to just 90 litres per second. Farmers in the region, who rely on this water to irrigate approximately 400 hectares of smallholdings, are now facing an uncertain future. Moreover, they warn that the proliferation of legal and illegal wells in “overexploited” areas is exacerbating the crisis. Speculation on land and unauthorised water extraction are depleting resources faster than they can be replenished.
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Local farmers have urged the Húescar Town Council to take immediate action against the large enterprises they believe are the primary culprits. “They are draining the springs to the point where we’re left without water,” said one protester.
Local government takes action
In response to these concerns, the Húescar Town Council has already taken steps to address the issue. This week, the council halted the operations of an agricultural company drilling for water near the Fuencaliente spring to irrigate almond trees. A review of the company’s permits revealed that the wells did not meet the legal requirements specified in their license.
This is the second time the local government has intervened in the same project. The council has now referred the matter to the Guadalquivir River Basin Authority, the Junta de Andalucía, the Department of Environment, and the Granada Provincial Council. The company may face sanctions for violating urban planning regulations.
Additionally, the mayor of Húescar, Ramón Martínez, announced the initiation of a local action plan to monitor and control groundwater usage within the municipality. The council is also seeking to designate a Special Protection Area around the springs to safeguard these vital resources from further depletion.