The Ebro River Basin Authority (CHE), under the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Environment, has awarded the joint venture formed by OFITECO and Lafcarr Project & Design the contract for the implementation of the Emergency Plan at the Ebro Reservoir in Cantabria. This project reinforces national efforts in hydraulic safety and public protection in areas exposed to potential flood risks.
Safety first: a warning system to protect lives
With a total budget of €222,262, the project focuses on equipping the emergency operations room at the dam, establishing the necessary communication networks, and deploying population alert systems. It also includes a public information campaign aimed at increasing awareness and preparedness among local residents.
Key technologies for effective emergency response
The main actions include:
Conditioning an emergency control room within the existing reservoir offices, equipped with advanced telecommunications systems.
Installation of three warning sirens: one near the dam and two others positioned at 3 and 5 kilometers respectively to ensure wide-area acoustic coverage.
Development of redundant communication channels to ensure operational reliability during critical situations.
A legal framework driving dam safety
The project is in compliance with Spain’s Basic Guideline for Civil Protection and the 1996 Technical Safety Regulation for Dams, which requires the development and implementation of emergency plans for all dams—whether constructed before or after that regulation.
Such plans are mandatory for initiating reservoir impoundment (Plan de Puesta en Carga) and for authorizing full-scale operational phases.
Technical expertise with a social impact
Lafcarr’s participation in this initiative highlights its experience in designing and deploying early warning systems for high-risk hydraulic infrastructures. It also reflects the company’s integrated approach—combining technology, compliance, and community outreach to ensure effective risk management.
Link to the official source:
Europa Press – CHE awards implementation of the Ebro Reservoir Emergency Plan
Looking to implement emergency alert systems for reservoirs or dams?
Contact us for tailored technical consultancy and regulatory-compliant solutions.
