Alarming destruction in a protected area
The environmental organizations Ipcena and SEO/Birdlife have raised their voices against what they consider a serious ecological assault in the thyme field of Alfés, located in Segrià. This complaint arises after the intervention of a company linked to the Generalitat, which has carried out a clearing that has affected half a hectare of valuable vegetation within the protected natural space of the Secanos de Mas de Melons-Alfés.
The spokesperson for Ipcena, Joan Vázquez, has not held back in his criticism of the regional authorities, accusing them of “violating” their responsibility in managing the protected area. According to Vázquez, this action not only destroys a vital ecosystem but also puts species such as the great grey shrike at risk, which inhabit this area during their breeding period.
Both entities have decided to file a formal complaint against Sílvia Paneque, the councillor for Territory, Housing and Ecological Transition, and Marc Vilahur, the director general of Environmental Policies and Natural Environment. The complaint is based on what they consider a serious failure by the Catalan government in allowing these destructive actions.
The affected area covers approximately 5,000 square meters and is crucial for the natural drainage of rainwater in the thyme plain. This process is essential for maintaining the small ecosystem that forms there. The environmental organizations have pointed out that the entry of heavy machinery coincides with a critical period for the reproduction of various local species.
Ipcena and SEO/Birdlife demand not only the immediate halt of any further activities in the damaged area but also the restoration of the affected habitat. Additionally, they request that a disciplinary file be opened to clarify the reasons behind the clearing carried out by Forestal Catalana.
As this controversy unfolds, the environmental entities remain steadfast in their commitment to defending the environment and continue working to protect natural spaces like the thyme field of Alfés. The situation once again highlights the delicate balance between human development and environmental conservation.
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