Contamination may be linked to sewage leaks. Credit: Norbert Nagel / Creative Commons
Three municipalities in La Safor region, near Gandia, closed their beaches to the public for bathing on Wednesday 2 July due to pollution. The ban specifically affects the beaches of Xeraco, Daimús, and La Goleta beach in Tavernes de la Valldigna.
According to the regional environment department (Conselleria de Medio Ambiente), tests carried out at three coastal points in these municipalities — Passeig dels Tarongers, Carrer Vall d’Albaida, and Av. de la Mar — revealed levels of intestinal enterococci bacteria more than double the recommended limits. As a result, the department advised local councils to close the beaches.
These bacteria originate in the intestines, and the authorities have indicated that the contamination may be linked to sewage leaks. In response, inspections are being carried out in collaboration with local councils at various points, including the Canal in Tavernes and the Serpis and Vaca rivers, to determine whether any discharges have occurred.
The Conselleria has stated that additional samples will be taken with the aim of resolving the issue as quickly as possible, so the beaches can be reopened soon. In the meantime, local councils have raised red flags and will announce when bathing is once again permitted through official municipal channels.
It is worth noting that these same beaches, along with others in four additional municipalities in La Safor, were also temporarily closed in early June due to a spill of an unidentified substance. After analysis confirmed the substance was non-toxic, the beaches were reopened two days later.
The regional environment department carries out regular monitoring of bathing waters, with increased oversight during the summer season, from 1 June to 15 September. Water samples and quality tests at beaches, rivers, and other bathing areas are conducted weekly from mid-June to mid-September to ensure water quality and protect public health from the effects of contamination.
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