Pollution Scandal in the Mar Menor
The authorities have launched an exhaustive investigation into the wastewater discharges that have contaminated the Mar Menor, a coastal ecosystem of great ecological value.
Interrogations of Public Officials
The Civil Guard and the Environmental Prosecutor’s Office have questioned the mayor of Cartagena, Noelia Arroyo, and five other public officials in relation to the detected spills.
Among those questioned are former councilors, officials and the technical director of the Murcia Sanitation and Purification Entity (Esamur).
Responsibilities and Crimes
The objective of the investigation is to determine the responsibilities of public officials and officials involved in the management of the Torre Pacheco Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP).
The Prosecutor’s Office seeks to clarify whether the facts constitute crimes related to environmental pollution.
Previous Complaints
The Agroingenieros por el Mar Menor collective had repeatedly denounced the polluting discharges from the Torre Pacheco treatment plant, even before the 2019 DANA.
Ciudadanos had also warned about the discharge of wastewater into the Rambla del Albujón, which flows into the Mar Menor.
Impact on the Ecosystem
Wastewater discharges have contaminated the Mar Menor with organic matter, phosphorus and fecal contaminants, endangering biodiversity and the health of the ecosystem.
The ongoing investigation seeks to clarify responsibilities and guarantee the protection of the valuable Mar Menor.
