Girabolhos dam project in Portugal fuels debate over environment and infrastructure

Portugal's Environment Minister inaugurated the public tender for the multi‑purpose Girabolhos dam project, which will cover the municipalities of Gouveia, Seia, Fornos de Algodres, Mangualde and Nelas. The proposal aims to improve flood control in the lower Mondego, enhance water supply and add hydro‑electric generation.

Local officials are demanding compensatory infrastructure, such as new roads, while councilors from the PS party have warned that the original environmental impact study is two decades old. They call for greater transparency, updated scientific data and broader measures—including forest restoration, erosion control and nature‑based solutions—before confirming the dam’s overall benefit.