More than 3,000 tons of weeds along with a large amount of solid urban waste have been removed during the cleaning of the Poti’y Stream. The intervention was being carried out by the Yacyretá Binational Entity (EBY) in the sub-reservoir of the stream. The cleaning was realised in the area between the Paraguayan municipalities of Encarnación and Cambyretá.
The EBY’s work aims to restore water quality and improve water flow of the Poti’y Stream. Additionally, their role is to prevent proliferation of organisms harmful to health, and protect the aquatic and terrestrial biodiversity. Furthermore, the removal of solid waste reduces risks to public health and prevents the obstruction of pipes and drainage systems. Amphibious backhoes, along with other lighter machinery, are being used for the work. The collected waste is transported in specially equipped dump trucks.
Awareness of water conservation
Engineer Cecilia Vergara, from the EBY’s Environmental Department explained that both manual and mechanised work is showing positive results. However, the work on the Poti’y Stream is a slow and complex process. She urged the public to be more aware of the importance of water conservation. Vergara tells people to avoid throwing waste into the stream or the sewer system.
She explained that, to date, the physical and chemical parametres are at reasonable levels. Additionally, Vergara added that they must continue working together, within a framework of shared responsibility. They have to take into account the high temperatures and the low water level that is still predicted.
Importance of the Poti’y Stream cleaning work
The Poti’y Stream is a strategic water resource for the area. The stream plays a key role in the region’s ecological balance, in addition to being linked to the Yacyretá Reservoir system. Despite the efforts made by the binational entity, pollution from urban waste remains a constant challenge.
The population plays a fundamental role in the preservation of this resource. Citizens are avoiding disposing of garbage in unauthorised spaces, using collection points correctly and collaborating in cleaning campaigns. They have also contributed directly to maintaining the health of the Poti’y Stream. With these initiatives, they are guaranteeing its availability for future generations.
Additional read: Paraguay River Going Through Critical Stage Due To Sharp Level Drop.
