Sanitary authorities have today ordered restrictions on the human consumption water from the main supply in Arguineguín due to an excess of chloride detected in the most recent analyses carried out by the Public Health Department of Gran Canaria. The water should not be used in any way for drinking, cooking or preparing food until chloride levels have ​​normalized.

In the latest analyses carried out by the Public Health officials in the supply zone of Arguineguín, where the Mogán Town Council is solely responsible for supplying the water service, chloride values ​​considered unsuitable for human consumption have been detected according to a report from the Programa de Vigilancia Sanitaria del Agua de Consumo Humano Program for Health Surveillance on Human Consumption of Water, leading to the restrictions on the use of water being put in place with immediate effect in order to protect the public from adverse reactions.

Over the next two months the Mogán Town Council is to carry out weekly analyses to check the levels of chlorides in the Arguineguín areas where it provides water services.

These restrictions will remain in force until chloride levels are normalized, at which time the Mogán Town hall will issue a new statement.

Source: Ayuntamiento de Mogán

Editor’s Comment:
Although most members of the foreign community tend to only drink bottled water, many locals and particularly those who cannot afford to buy extra drinking water do drink straight from the taps.  Most people do however use the water for food preparation, cooking and for their pets and other animals.  it is strongly advised that no consumption of the water is allowed until the chloride detected has returned to safe levels for humans and animals alike.

Local residents say they have been warning Mogán Council for several years that there is a problem with too many chemicals being added to the water supply.

Opposition councillors also recently highlighted the concerns from residents living in the Barranco de Arguineguín neighbourhood of El Horno, after many complained of burning sensations and a strong smell of chloride coming from the water that came out of the taps.

This is not a new problem, but for the sake of public health, it is one that must be addressed properly and in good time.