Risky constructions: a problematic legacy
The recent catastrophe in the Valencian Community has reopened the debate on construction in areas susceptible to flooding. Authorizations to build in these territories are not new, but the question that resonates among citizens is: how did we get to this point? Predictive models indicate that these areas, with return periods of 100 to 500 years, are doomed to face devastating floods, and the scientific community warns that the situation could worsen with the climate emergency.
Voices from the Community: Memories of Past Disasters
A trip to Cornellà de Llobregat has allowed us to hear the voices of residents who remember with pain the floods of 1971. Ignasi Doñate, one of the residents, expresses his concern by comparing the images of the floods in Paiporta with those he still retains from his experience in Rubió i Ors. His concern is based on the recent Ribera-Salines urban plan, which foresees the construction of numerous buildings in an area with a high risk of flooding.
The scientific perspective: adaptation or destruction
Experts in climatology, hydrology and urban planning agree that the growth in the risk of flooding is undeniable. Figures such as Anna Boqué-Ciurana and Xavier García Acosta highlight the need to respect river ecosystems and allow water to flow freely, avoiding destructive interference. This focus on natural solutions could be the key to mitigating future damage.
Alarming revelations: an ignored library of warnings
In a surprising revelation, it was discovered that the Generalitat Valenciana had commissioned the University of Alicante to create a library of flood warnings. After the floods in the Baix Segura in 2019, it was considered urgent to prepare warning messages for the population. However, these 99 SMS messages, designed to inform citizens during emergencies, were never activated on the fateful night of October 29, leaving the population without guidance at a critical moment.
Final thoughts: towards a sustainable future
The reality of construction in flood prone areas forces us to rethink our urban planning policies. The key to the future is to learn from the past, adopt measures that prioritize public safety and ensure that nature and urban planning coexist in a sustainable way. The onus is on both governments and the community to prevent the sad lessons of history from repeating themselves.