Punta Brava wastewater plant spill investigated for possible sabotage

The Punta Brava wastewater treatment plant in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife, experienced a spill of approximately 1,000 liters of a solution containing 25% ferric chloride and 75% water. The incident occurred on a Saturday night due to the rupture of a one-centimeter diameter pipe in the tertiary treatment area.

Aqualia, the company managing the facility, reports that the pipe had been repaired during maintenance earlier that day. Authorities are investigating a possible sabotage, as security cameras captured an unauthorized individual entering the facility and approaching the area where the rupture occurred. While Aqualia states that preliminary analyses show the spill remained within the plant, officials are investigating whether any liquid reached the sea via the rainwater collection network.

The Cabildo de Tenerife has opened an investigation into Aqualia, demanding immediate clarification regarding the causes, the measures taken, and whether proper protocols were followed. Local police and the Seprona unit of the Guardia Civil have inspected the site and taken samples.