Cubijíes residents block Riobamba–Baños road over water plant site

Protesters blocked the Riobamba–Baños road in the Cubijíes parish of Ecuador on Tuesday, October 6, 2026. Local residents and water board representatives halted machinery and personnel to demand the relocation of a proposed wastewater treatment plant.

The community expressed concerns regarding the site's proximity to water sources used for human consumption and agriculture. Local engineer Alfonso Arellano called for independent technical analyses of soil conditions and water quality before construction continues.

Patricio Guaranga, president of the Riobamba Municipality's Public Works Commission, stated that the technical design includes independent drainage for rainwater and separate sewage flows. He noted that the project has approved feasibility studies and warned that changing the location would require restarting administrative procedures.