Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain – The water supply network for the 36 cities within the Barcelona Metropolitan Area (AMB) is set to receive significant investments totaling 43.1 million euros in 2026. This strategic plan was given the green light by the AMB Metropolitan Council on December 16th, with the funding to be managed by Aigües de Barcelona.
Key Investments for Metropolitan Water Supply
The approved 43.1 million euro budget includes several primary allocations aimed at enhancing the region’s water infrastructure. The largest portion, 25.7 million euros, is designated for distribution improvements. An additional 10.4 million euros will be allocated to transportation infrastructure, while 4.4 million euros are earmarked for information systems. Finally, one million euros will be invested in water supply buildings.
These 43.1 million euros are part of a broader investment strategy. Separately, an additional 16.3 million euros are being processed by the Agència Catalana de l’Aigua (ACA) for investments within the Ter-Llobregat area, further demonstrating a concerted effort to modernize and secure Barcelona’s water resources.
Council Approval and Political Stance
The decision by the AMB Metropolitan Council received broad support, though not unanimously. The proposal was approved with abstentions from the PP and Junts per Tiana parties, and notably, a single vote against from Vox. This approval underscores the metropolitan area’s commitment to ensuring a robust and efficient water supply for its residents.
The new water concession for the Barcelona area is expected to necessitate investments of 170 million euros across eight municipalities, indicating a long-term vision for sustainable water management and infrastructure development in the region.
Ensuring Future Water Security
The substantial investment in the water network is a critical step towards addressing the growing demands and challenges associated with urban water supply. By focusing on key areas such as distribution, transport, and information systems, Barcelona aims to enhance the reliability and efficiency of its water services, safeguarding this essential resource for its communities.
This financial commitment reflects the ongoing efforts by local authorities to upgrade existing infrastructure and implement advanced technologies to manage water resources effectively. The allocation of funds is designed to improve service quality, reduce water losses, and prepare the network for future environmental and demographic changes.
The overall investment strategy, encompassing both the AMB’s direct funding and the ACA’s contributions, highlights a comprehensive approach to water management in Catalonia. These measures are crucial for maintaining public health, supporting economic activity, and ensuring environmental sustainability in one of Spain’s most populous regions.
Source: elperiodico.com
