Veolia faces criticism over water services in La Guajira

Veolia Aguas is facing scrutiny regarding its performance as a utility operator in southern La Guajira, Colombia. The company is responsible for the management, operation, and maintenance of water and sewage systems in several municipalities, including Villanueva, El Molino, San Juan del Cesar, Distracción, Fonseca, Barrancas, and Hatonuevo.

Critics argue that the company has failed to meet regulatory standards under Law 142 of 1994 and Commission for the Regulation of Drinking Water and Basic Sanitation (CRA) resolutions. Specific concerns include poor continuity and pressure in water delivery, inadequate wastewater treatment, and failure to protect water sources and the environment. Despite its global reputation in environmental services, the company is accused of failing to provide potable water and reliable service to the local population.

In a separate initiative in Montería, Veolia conducted a water conservation awareness session for officials from the National Planning Department (DNP). This activity, part of the company’s ‘Water Culture’ strategy, aimed to promote responsible consumption habits to mitigate the impact of the El Niño phenomenon on water availability.