Portugal moves to restore submerged bridge and footpath after dam and river damage

The Portuguese government is working with the municipalities of Boticas and Vila Pouca de Aguiar to replace a wire bridge that was submerged when Iberdrola began filling the Tâmega reservoir in October 2023. The planned pedestrian crossing is expected to cost over €4.2 million, with financing from Iberdrola, the Environmental Fund and the two municipalities.

Separately, the municipal council of Pindelo announced a rerouting of the local footpath to the opposite river bank, rebuilding two bridges along the new route. The change follows damage to the original trail and legal constraints from a related court case. Council president Rui Monteiro demanded a map, cost estimate and timetable, noting that earlier expectations for a May restart were not met and that the closure harms the parish’s image.

Both projects aim to restore safe access for residents and visitors while supporting regional tourism and local development.