Councillor Juan Manuel Lafuente visited the reconstruction works of the Torrent Major walls in Sóller on Thursday, a demand from the municipality since 2017. The project, which involves an investment of €550,000, is expected to be completed by the end of August.
The Balearic Government has accelerated flood protection measures in Sóller. The Councillor for the Sea and Water Cycle, Juan Manuel Lafuente, supervised the improvement works on the Torrent Major bed on Thursday, a long-standing demand of the municipality that is now nearing its final phase with an investment of €550,000.
The visit focused on the section between Pont den Barona and the tram bridge, one of the most vulnerable areas of the torrent, classified as having a significant potential flood risk. Accompanied by the mayor, Miquel Nadal, and members of the government team, Lafuente checked the progress of the works aimed at correcting structural deficiencies that, during heavy rainfall episodes, have caused overflow and affected homes and properties in the l’Horta area.
Reinforced concrete walls designed to last 100 years
The project includes the reconstruction of three sections of reinforced concrete wall totalling 202 linear meters and reaching heights of up to 3.5 meters, designed to ensure the passage of flow corresponding to a return period of 100 years. The works involve the demolition of deteriorated structures and the construction of new retaining walls, clad with natural stone to maintain landscape integration.
Additionally, technical solutions have been incorporated to reinforce stability, such as a foundation protected against scouring, sloping walls towards the bed, and drainage systems to reduce ground pressure. The works are being carried out by Elsamex Gestión de Infraestructuras SL for an amount of €547,000 and have a six-month execution period, so if there are no unforeseen events, the works will conclude by the end of August.
Increased investment in Mallorca's torrent network
During the visit, Lafuente highlighted that the Government has decided to intervene “to protect Sóller and provide a real response to a problem that has repeatedly affected local residents and properties.” The councillor defended the need “to anticipate, invest, and strengthen infrastructure before an emergency occurs,” emphasising that this action represents “more safety, greater hydraulic capacity, and increased protection for people and the territory.”
The intervention in the Torrent Major is part of a general increase in investment in the management and maintenance of Mallorca's torrents. New contracts will rise from €5.1 million to €12.67 million for the period 2026-2029, multiplying by 2.5 the resources allocated to these actions. At the same time, the Ministry has activated a line of aid of €300,000 to promote the cleaning and conditioning of torrents in agricultural and livestock operations, with applications open until 31 July 2026.
For the residents of Sóller, especially those in the l’Horta area, these works represent relief after years of fear every time it rained. Now, with the reinforced walls and a clearer bed, peace of mind arrives just in time for the late summer storms.
You may also like
