The Generalitat of Valencia has admitted that it was responsible for monitoring the Poyo ravine, following severe flooding in the region. An internal report from the Ministry of Environment, issued on the twenty-ninth of October, clarifies that tracking the water levels in rivers and ravines is indeed a responsibility of the Generalitat. This revelation has raised questions about the governmental response during the flooding that affected numerous municipalities, including Paiporta, Catarroja, and Massanassa.
Former Interior Minister Salomé Pradas faces intense scrutiny as it has been revealed that she made several unsuccessful attempts to contact President Carlos Mazón on the day of the disaster. Records show that her calls went unanswered for nearly an hour while emergency operations were already underway. This lack of communication is a central point of inquiry in the investigation about the response times during the flooding.
On the same day, the government’s delegate in Valencia, Pilar Bernabé, acknowledged receiving a call from President Mazón after the emergency notification was sent out. Notably, Pradas failed to address an offer of collaboration from environmental agents sent just hours before the ravine overflowed. This lack of response has drawn criticism, suggesting a disjointed emergency response strategy.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on the responsibilities of the Environment Ministry and the series of miscommunications that contributed to the crisis. The need for coordinated action in times of emergency has never been clearer, as residents and officials alike seek answers.
This article was written with AI assistance and reviewed by a human editor before publication.