The largest dam in Lower Silesia and the 3rd largest in Poland is facing a serious crisis. The inhabitants of the vicinity of Wlana, Lwówka Śląski and Bolesławec beat the alarm – the construction cracks and its condition threatens the safety of thousands of people. Are we facing a repeat of tragic events from the Silesian side?
Hundred-year-old dam in critical condition
The Pilchowice Dam on the Bebr river is an impressive, over 100-year-old construction, crucial for the protection of the floodwater region and the production of electricity. Since the September flood, however, there have been disturbing cracks.
– “There is simply a scratch, the dam becomes leaky, erosion will proceed. The water entering through the microfractures increases it, weakening the full thing. erstwhile the water force exceeds the strength of the material, the dam may rapidly break’ – inform citizens on social media.
The consequences of the rupture of the dam in the Silesian side are inactive alive in memory, where during the September flood 270 people lost their homes. Now they're afraid of repeating the crash.
Tauron calms down, but the villagers don't believe
The company is liable for the state of the barrier Tauron Ecoenergy. In consequence to the concerns of the Mayor of Vilnius, Artur Zych, published a company statement:
– “Do not perceive to rumors that have nothing to do with reality. The scratch on the pictures is only a superficial crack in the layer of stones, which are an aesthetic component alternatively than a structural element’ – convinces the company.
In Tauron's authoritative letter, it ensures:
‘The rysa visible in the lining of the dam of the Pilchowice Water Power Plant poses no threat to the construction and stableness of the dam. The lynx is not on the dam itself, but on its stone lining, which is not connected to the dam body. The lynx will be removed during the planned renovation.”
But the inhabitants are not convinced. They collect signatures under appeal for independent expertise and immediate action.
– “This is ridiculous. How is it that no major renovation work has been carried out in specified a building for so many years? Tauron should stand on his head to empty the dam, clear it and undergo a comprehensive renovation’ – comments the outrage.
Renovation announced for years – will it yet take place?
The cost of repair is estimated at PLN 160 million, and according to the latest announcements, the work is due to begin in late 2024. However, doubts arise – Polish waters have informed that Tauron has lost his approval to upgrade.
‘Noting that according to Article 414(1)(3) of the Act Water law – water permits expire if the plant has not started to operate water equipment, works or activities, within 3 years of the date on which the licence became final – it should be considered that that licence expired on 12 December 2024.’ – reads the statement.
Moreover, the company has not yet submitted a fresh application. Residents are skeptical:
– "Tauron manages the dam only until 2026. Will they truly invest in renovation if they can avoid responsibility?"
Are we in danger of disaster?
The dispute between the inhabitants and Tauron continues, and time is moving out. Will the dam withstand the planned renovation? Will the authorities and the company be able to prevent the tragedy?
Residents do not intend to wait passively – they organize protests and collect signatures to force immediate action. Will their voice be heard?
More here:
The Pilchowice Dam is breaking! Residents are alarmed: “This could end in tragedy”
