Ambipar, from Brazil, leads rescue and reconstruction efforts in Valencia after devastating rains

Cars stacked after heavy rain in Valencia 11/1/2024 REUTERS/Susana Vera (Photo: REUTERS/Susana Vera)

With expertise in environmental disasters, Ambipar utilizes technology and a specialized team to help the Spanish city recover from the floods.

247 – The Brazilian company Ambipar was called upon by the Spanish government to assist in the recovery of Valencia, which was severely impacted by intense rains at the end of October. In a single night, between October 29 and 30, Valencia recorded rainfall equivalent to a year’s worth, resulting in devastating floods that have claimed at least 222 lives, according to local authorities. Ambipar, with extensive experience in responding to environmental disasters in Brazil, especially the recent floods in Rio Grande do Sul, is now applying these techniques in Spain to restore one of the areas most affected by the Dana phenomenon, which threatens new storms, reports Público.

Sérgio Lomban Lage, managing director of Ambipar Response, highlighted that the company has mobilized a robust structure for the operation, including specialized equipment and experienced teams. “We are providing various equipment to make the recovery as fast as possible,” he said. The operation is concentrated in areas where the impact was most severe, such as Paiporta, where rivers overflowed, leaving a thick layer of mud and debris that has made many roads impassable. Among the mobilized equipment are pumps capable of removing up to 20,000 cubic liters of water per minute, essential for clearing flooded basements.

The tragedy in Valencia has also reignited a political debate in Spain about the delay in alerting the population to the severity of the weather situation. However, Lage avoided commenting on political disputes, reiterating that the company’s focus is solely on emergency response. “We don’t get involved in political issues. Our work is to respond to emergencies,” the executive emphasized.

In addition to extensive damage to businesses and urban infrastructure, the flood’s impact has also seriously affected Albufera Lagoon, an important ecological sanctuary where the rising water levels have harmed both local cultivation and migratory bird habitats. Lage warned that with the quantity of debris and vehicles washed into the area, there is a significant risk of environmental contamination. “We must act quickly to prevent a greater disaster,” he noted, mentioning that Ambipar is in negotiations with authorities to initiate preventive contamination actions.

Besides Valencia, other regions remain on alert due to forecasts of more intense storms. Spain’s Transport Minister, Óscar Puente, assured that urban mobility will be largely restored, with 99% of trains and buses operating normally. However, Lage estimates that it will take about seven months for Valencia to return to normal. The Spanish government’s proposal includes support for the restructuring of local businesses and the restoration of affected electrical networks, with incentives for entrepreneurs to restart their activities.

Ambipar, with a presence in 40 countries, has stood out globally in tackling natural disasters, being called upon to work in environmentally vulnerable regions worldwide. In Valencia, heavy trucks, cranes, a fire truck with a submersible hydraulic pump, along with 24 divers and drones for inspection, have been mobilized. A command post has been set up, involving specialists from the UK and Ireland, including ex-military personnel. “We are working 24 hours a day,” reported Lage, reaffirming Ambipar’s commitment to Valencia’s recovery.

The company’s experience and swift response reflect accumulated knowledge in disaster scenarios that are becoming increasingly common across Europe. These disasters are becoming more frequent due to rapid climate changes driven by the greenhouse effect, commented Lage, noting that many European municipalities are still not adequately equipped to face the impacts of the climate crisis. According to the director, contingency plans on paper do not always translate into effective practical actions. He emphasized the importance of having trained professionals and proper equipment to ensure the recovery process is as efficient as possible.

Amid the current emergency, Lage also highlighted the fundamental role of coordination and specialization in rescue and cleanup efforts. He mentioned that local volunteers were the first to mobilize to help the victims, although, according to him, not all had the necessary training to handle a crisis of this magnitude. “The more professional the work, the quicker the recovery of destroyed areas,” he observed.

Ambipar, with an established history in managing environmental crises, reinforces its commitment to minimizing the impacts of the floods and working towards a quick and sustainable recovery for Valencia.

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