Saltillo Waters seeks to expand sources of water intake in the face of population growth

After a week of citizen protests over water supply problems, the general manager of Aguas de Saltillo (Agsal), Iván José Vicente García, spoke about the actions being carried out to address the challenge of population growth and increased demand for water .

YOU MAY BE INTERESTED IN: Now yes? Delivery of the Arteaga Campus of TecNM Saltillo announced for May

The city of Saltillo faces a challenge regarding water availability, especially during the summer months. Ivan Jose Vicente Garcia , general manager of Agsal , said that water consumption increases significantly during this time, reaching peaks of 130-140 liters per person per day. In comparison, during the winter, the average consumption is 90 liters per person per day.

To ensure supply, Agsal is working on the second phase of the Anti-Drought Plan, which seeks to incorporate new sources of water intake, according to Vicente García . The company is studying the possibility of drilling new wells and is in negotiations with landowners to obtain the necessary permits and authorization from Conagua.

Regarding the population growth of Saltillo, Iván José Vicente García pointed out that the city is growing at a rate of 2% annually in terms of water users, which represents around 4,500 new users per year. This generates a greater demand for water and requires the company to adapt to meet the needs of the population.

The manager also mentioned that Agsal keeps a record of 500 illegal water connections per year and that the company is working to regularize these connections and apply sanctions in accordance with the law. Sanctions may vary depending on the type of violation and water consumption, and include fines and regularization of the service.

The company is also working on digitalising the water network to improve efficiency and reduce water losses. This includes implementing technologies to monitor consumption in real time and anticipate potential problems.

Regarding the availability of water for the future, Iván José Vicente García said that the company is working to ensure that there is enough water to meet the needs of the population . According to the manager, Agsal is studying the possibility of incorporating around 200 liters per second of new water collection capacity.

Finally , Iván José Vicente García highlighted that the company offers a telephone service at 073 to report problems and make enquiries, as well as being present on social networks to keep the population informed about ongoing work and projects. In the event of supply problems being detected in any area, the company also offers to send water pipes free of charge to meet the needs of the population.