Burgau’s water supply was cut off on Wednesday
The western Algarve village of Burgau in Vila do Bispo is without water since Wednesday after beer and soft drink cans were thrown into the local water reservoir, contaminating the available water.
The reservoir was reportedly broken into on Tuesday night by a group which proceeded to throw the objects into the water.
In a statement posted on the social media pages of Vila do Bispo municipal council, mayor Rute Silva explains that water supply to the village, the Quinta da Fortaleza urbanisation and all properties supplied by the reservoir was cut off after the local council contacted health authorities and GNR police. The council adds that it is following their guidelines and that the situation is currently under investigation by PJ police and other competent entities.
All the water that remains inside the reservoir is being repurposed for “non-potable uses,” the council said, adding that the reservoir is being cleaned and refilled to restore previous water levels.
“This operation will take several hours, with no estimated completion time. This water supply cut-off is aimed at ensuring public health, safety, and the well-being of the population,” the council added, advising residents in the affected areas to not use the water that is in their pipes for human consumption.
michael.bruxo@portugalresident.com
