An overflow was caused by a blockage in the basic sanitation collector preceding the Mareta pumping station, “provoked by an undue object” introduced into the system, leading to “wastewater flowing into the coastal area,” the municipality explained in a social media post.
Due to the water contamination, swimming was banned at Mareta beach, located in Sagres, within the municipality of Vila do Bispo, in the district of Faro, the municipality warned.
“This preventive measure was determined by the competent authorities under the law, with the aim of protecting public health and ensuring the safety of bathers,” it argued.
The Algarve council emphasized that it is monitoring the situation and assured that efforts are being made to reopen the beach to swimmers as soon as possible.
