HYDRO

Ecological damages

04-15-2009 | OVIDIO LORENZO

periodistas@laestrella.com.pa

Panama Star PANAMA. A group of environmentalists and union groups from Chiriqui accused the company CILSA, that is constructing several hydroelectric projects in Renacimiento, of causing irreparable ecological damage to the area.

The leader of the Social Security national Front, Frenadeso, said that the Panamanian authorities have not paid any attention to their complaints and have not started any investigation about the contamination of the principal rivers in the area.

Caballero said that the construction of the hydroelectric f addition between Baitun, Caizan and Bajo La Mina in Renacimiento, has devastated vast mountainous areas in which the company has built tunnels using toxic substances and explosives, leaving residues on land and in creeks and rivers.

He added that the river Chiriqui Viejo, one of the most affected, supplies water for the residents in the areas of Baru and Paso Canoa, near Panama-Costa Rica border.

Raquel Coba de Boyd, an environmentalist said that a danger exists that when the rainy season starts, material coming from the tunnels will increase, contaminating rivers with toxic waste and putting the health of the population at risk.

Coba added that the authorities have done nothing with regards to the destruction of various historical sites from the Pre-Colombian era, as well as mines and the negative effects that have affected the communities of Renacimiento.

The environmentalist said that the residents have been abused by the company and they are completely helpless against it.

The prosecutor, Jessica Rosas said that accusation presented by the unions and environmentalists groups will be investigated to find out who is responsible for the damages.

Hydroelectric projects have encountered a lot of opposition all over the country, because of the amount of devastation they cause to the environment and inhabitants..