Ussassai mayor threatens resignation amid swimming ban at natural pools

The natural swimming holes in the Ogliastra region of Sardinia, known for their emerald‑green waters, have been closed to bathing and aquatrekking to protect the environment from overtourism. The municipal ordinance bars entry to the pools along the Rio Sa Taula and nearby streams.

Mayor Chicco Usai says the ban is undermined by a steady flow of tourists, many of them foreign, and by insufficient police and forest‑ranger resources. He has appealed to the prefect and to regional environment councilor Rosanna Laconi for assistance, and has said he may resign if the situation remains unmanageable.