The Estepona Town Hall has initiated a proactive plan for the clearing, cleaning, and maintenance of more than 50 riverbeds and water crossings within urban areas of the municipality. This operation aims to eliminate potential blockages caused by vegetation and accumulated debris in anticipation of the upcoming rainy season, as well as to reduce the risk of wildfires near residential areas.
Municipal crews are focusing on the systematic removal of plant remains, invasive reeds, and solid waste that may hinder the natural drainage capacity of these waterways. Priority is being given to locations with a history of debris accumulation.
Additionally, the operation will address around 30 structural water crossings throughout the municipality and will respond to any incidents that arise as the work progresses.
Work on the riverbeds has commenced following the summer season to strictly adhere to the guidelines set by the Andalusian Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment, which prohibits mechanical interventions in riverbanks and beds from March until the end of summer (July-August) to protect the biological cycles and nesting of protected species in riparian ecosystems.
The Town Hall emphasizes that municipal teams are only working within areas designated as urban land, as the maintenance and clearing of waterways in rustic and non-urbanizable land are legally the responsibility of the Junta de Andalucía.
The work is expected to continue uninterrupted until the first quarter of next year. The Town Hall is urging residents of nearby urbanizations to respect the temporary signage regarding road closures and access while heavy machinery and workers are present along the road margins.