Italian regions debate water management as funding and revocation proposals emerge

In Sicily, municipal councillors Raimondo Brucculeri and Maurizio Blò of the ControSistema movement presented two contrasting proposals for the island’s water system: one to revoke the management contract with the private operator Siciliacque under Article 30 of the regional water convention, and another to purchase a 75 % stake in the company. Both proposals lack detailed plans, cost estimates, or a clear successor for the service that supplies about 1.6 million residents. Analysts note that activating the revocation could entail a financial charge of roughly €140‑150 million, based on the remaining unamortised investments.

In North Sardinia, Lega councillor and former regional president Michele Pais praised a €140 million funding package announced by Infrastructure Minister Matteo Salvini for strategic water projects. The allocation includes €66 million for the Coghinas I and II aqueducts, €23.5 million for the Nurra irrigation system, €7.4 million for the Bunnari dam, €5 million for the Monte Lerno dam, and additional works on the Rio Minore dam. Pais said the investments will improve water safety, network efficiency, and the resilience of families, businesses, and agriculture amid a severe drought.

Both stories highlight ongoing political debate and substantial public investment aimed at addressing Italy’s water infrastructure challenges.