FVMP Urges CHX to Clean Turia River and Ravines Amidst Rain Risk

The municipal association requests priority actions to prevent floods and fires in urban and peri-urban areas.

Generic image of the Turia riverbed with accumulated vegetation and dry debris.
IA

Generic image of the Turia riverbed with accumulated vegetation and dry debris.

The Valencian Federation of Municipalities and Provinces (FVMP) has requested the urgent cleaning of the Turia river's new course and ravines and streams that cross urban areas from the Júcar Hydrographic Confederation (CHX), given the proximity of autumn rains.

The entity, which groups Valencian municipalities, has expressed its concern through a letter addressed to the CHX president, Miguel Polo. According to the FVMP president, Paqui Bartual, town councils are worried about the conservation status of these areas, particularly due to the accumulation of spontaneous vegetation, reeds, and dry plant debris.
Bartual recalled that this request was already made last year, also asking for the planning of actions and a coordination meeting, without any technical plan being finalized or the meeting taking place to date. The current situation, according to the president, could hinder the proper evacuation of water during intense rainfall episodes, making it necessary to address the issue preventively.
The FVMP president highlighted the importance of the Turia riverbed as a fundamental hydraulic infrastructure for flood protection in the metropolitan area of Valencia. She also emphasized the essential role of ravines and streams in draining runoff water.
The letter sent to the CHX emphasizes the need to clean sections that cross urban, peri-urban, industrial, or agricultural areas. In these sectors, the accumulation of vegetation and dry debris not only increases vulnerability to flooding but also to fire risk.
Finally, Bartual requested the planning of actions for the year 2026 and a clear delineation of responsibilities between the CHX and other competent administrations.