Feb 18 • 11:51 UTC 🇪🇸 Spain El País

Castilla-La Mancha urges the dismantling of a via ferrata built in a protected area of Toledo

The government of Castilla-La Mancha has called for the removal of a via ferrata in a protected area of Toledo following environmental concerns and legal infringements raised by local ecologists.

The regional government of Castilla-La Mancha has urged the small municipality of Santa Ana de Pusa to dismantle a via ferrata installed in the Pusa River area, which violates environmental protection regulations. The via ferrata features several zip lines, raising serious concerns among local environmental organizations such as Ecologistas en Acción, who argue that its presence poses a threat to the sensitive ecosystem of the area. The tension escalated as the mayor of Santa Ana de Pusa claimed ignorance regarding the site's classification as a ZEPA (Special Protection Area for Birds), which adds a layer of controversy to the situation.

In light of the provincial government's findings from technical inspections conducted by environmental agents, it has been confirmed that the construction of the via ferrata is incompatible with the laws that protect the surrounding environment. The insistence on dismantling the facility signals a proactive approach by the regional authorities to address ecological violations and to ensure compliance with environmental regulations that govern protected areas. This incident highlights the ongoing conflict between development interests and environmental stewardship in Castilla-La Mancha.

The situation raises important questions about the responsibilities of local authorities in managing regional ecological assets, as well as the understanding of environmental regulations by elected officials. The municipality of Santa Ana de Pusa, with a population of only 345, may face significant backlash if it attempts to resist the orders from the Junta de Castilla-La Mancha. The clash between local development agendas and state-level environmental protection efforts underscores the need for better communication and collaboration between these entities to foster sustainable development in sensitive areas.

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