- Residents and agricultural producers in Casupá (Florida) oppose the government’s plan to build a dam for water supply to the metropolitan area.
- Concerns include flooding of farmland (up to 24 hectares), loss of jobs, and lack of clear communication about mitigation measures.
- Workers fear losing their livelihoods, and landowners worry about compensation and property rights.
- The issue reached the Chamber of Deputies’ Environment Committee, where deputies heard community concerns.
- Authorities plan to present detailed environmental and social impact studies soon to address doubts.
Community Voices Alarm as Casupá Dam Project Advances
Residents and producers in the rural area of Casupá, located in the Florida department of Uruguay, have taken to the streets to protest against the government’s decision to proceed with the construction of a dam intended to secure water supply for the metropolitan Region. This initiative has sparked wide-ranging concerns about environmental impacts, livelihoods, and property rights.
Why Are Neighbors Opposed to the Dam?
The main issues raised by the locals revolve around the potential flooding of large swathes of productive land,destruction of agricultural infrastructure,and a lack of clear information from authorities.Here are the key concerns:
- flooding of Agricultural Land: Producers claim that the reservoir created by the dam would submerge up to 24 hectares of their lands,seriously undermining their operations.
- loss of Livelihoods and Jobs: Workers on farms, many of which have foreign owners often absent from the country, fear losing their employment and homes if the area becomes flooded.
- Restricted Access to Water for Livestock: Fencing around the dam would prevent animals from drinking directly from the reservoir, adding further complications for small-scale farmers.
- Insufficient Communication and Planning: Neighbors report minimal dialogue with the government about possible alternatives, mitigation actions, or compensation plans.
Voices from Casupá: Personal Stories
One local farmer explained: “Not only would 24 hectares of my land be submerged, but the dam will be fenced, so my animals won’t be able to drink from it. I’m a small producer, and there are many like me. Will they build us a new farm or house? Will they pay what the land is really worth?”
A farm worker on a property owned by Italian nationals expressed deep worries: “The farm where I work will be completely underwater if the dam goes ahead, resulting in total losses. The owners travel back and forth outside Uruguay, but we who live here and work the land will be left without jobs or homes.”
Political and Institutional Responses
The issue was recently discussed in the Commission of Environment of the Chamber of Deputies, where neighbors shared their concerns directly with legislators.
| Political Figure | Position | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Walter Cervini | Deputy, Partido Colorado | Highlighted the dangers perceived by locals and their ongoing uncertainty about the project. |
| Carlos Router | Deputy, Frente Amplio | Announced that a extensive study and scenario will soon be presented to clarify doubts and provide necessary information. |
Deputy Cervini emphasized that residents feel “disregarded” and poorly informed. Meanwhile, Deputy Router sought to reassure that a full environmental and social impact assessment is in planning and will be shared soon to involve locals more meaningfully.
Are There Viable Alternatives?
The majority of protesting neighbors voiced a critical message: “If this dam is going to be built – though we strongly oppose it – the government must frist consider alternatives and carefully account for local impacts before proceeding.”
They demand transparency and dialogue to ensure that their future and livelihoods are not sacrificed without due process or fair compensation.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Casupá?
The dam project in Casupá highlights a common challenge across Uruguay and Latin America: balancing infrastructure advancement with social and environmental sustainability. The government’s upcoming studies and consultations will be crucial to either moving the project forward responsibly or prompting reconsideration based on community input.
For now, neighbors remain vigilant and united in urging their voices be heard, reflecting a broader call across rural areas facing similar development pressures.