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JPP Urges Regional Government for Submarine Outfall at Calheta Wastewater Plant

Madeira GuideMadeira Guide
May 19, 2026
3 min read

The Juntos Pelo Povo party demands urgent action from the Regional Government of Madeira to address environmental concerns at the Calheta Wastewater Treatment Plant, which is operating at just 10% capacity due to the absence of a crucial submarine outfall.

In a recent appeal, the Juntos Pelo Povo (JPP) party has called on the Regional Government of Madeira to prioritize environmental investments at the Calheta Wastewater Treatment Plant (ETAR). The plant, which began operations two decades ago, is currently functioning at only 10% of its full capacity.

This inefficiency stems from the lack of a submarine outfall, a situation attributed to the Regional Government led by the PSD/CDS coalition. The absence of this infrastructure has resulted in daily discharges into the local pebble beach near the mouth of Ribeira da Serra de Água, causing significant environmental damage.

Basílio Santos, a JPP representative in the Madeira Legislative Assembly, highlighted these issues, emphasizing the urgent need for governmental intervention to mitigate ongoing environmental harm and restore the plant's operational capacity.

The Calheta Wastewater Treatment Plant is a critical piece of infrastructure for the region, designed to process and treat wastewater to prevent environmental pollution. However, without the necessary investment in a submarine outfall, the plant's effectiveness is severely compromised.

Local residents and tourists alike have expressed concerns over the environmental impact, as the untreated discharges pose a threat to the natural beauty and ecological health of the area, which is a popular destination for visitors.

JPP's call to action serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable infrastructure development in preserving Madeira's environment and ensuring the island remains an attractive destination for international tourists.

'The environmental damages are visible every day,' stated Basílio Santos, urging for immediate action from the government.

Basílio Santos

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Madeira Guide

Madeira Guide

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