| Work Detail |
The province of Catamarca will face a significant financial burden following the termination of the cooperation and financing agreement with the National Water and Sanitation Works Authority (ENOHSA). The measure, promoted by the National Government, means the province will have to cover $557,188,166 to avoid the suspension of ongoing works. The original agreement established that the Nation would transfer a total of $3,128,263,704 for the execution of various water projects, of which $2,571,075,538 had already been paid in advance. With the dissolution of ENOHSA through Decree 1020/2024, the province will now be responsible for the remaining funds to complete the planned works. The affected projects include the Valle Viejo Aqueduct, the Fiambalá Sewage Drainage System, the Western Sewage Collection Network II in the capital, the Saujil and Ancasti Residential Wastewater Treatment Plants, the Refurbishment of the Pirquitas Water Treatment Plant, and the Sewage Systems between the capital and Valle Viejo. These infrastructures are key to improving access to drinking water and sanitation in the region. Despite the interruption of funding, the National Government maintains the authority to technically and financially audit the progress of the works. This means that the province must justify the use of the funds received and, if the projects are not completed, return the amounts advanced. The decision to dissolve ENOHSA is part of a policy of reducing state structures and transferring responsibilities to other agencies. According to the provisions, the entitys functions will be absorbed by the Undersecretariat of Water Resources, under the Ministry of Public Works. This change creates uncertainty about the future of water infrastructure in Catamarca and other provinces that relied on national funding. Faced with this situation, the Provincial Government must evaluate alternatives to ensure the continuity of the works and avoid negative impacts on the water supply and sanitation for thousands of residents. |
