River Cleaning Operation in French Polynesia
The Environmental Department (DIREN) is taking action to remove as many waste materials as possible from the rivers, such as bottles or plastic bags, household appliances, vehicle carcasses, tree trunks, and much more.
The removal of these waste items is a top priority as they have a detrimental impact on the beauty and health of the rivers. They can obstruct the water flow, degrade water quality, and pose a threat to aquatic life. Additionally, these waste materials can exacerbate flood risks by impeding the natural flow of water. By eliminating these obstacles, the goal is to restore the functionality of the rivers, prevent floods, and ensure the safety of residents living nearby.
As part of the European PROTEGE project, a specialized company has been selected to carry out this cleaning operation. During the months of July and August 2023, twelve rivers in Tahiti and two in Moorea will be the focus of this work. Several tons of waste have been estimated and will be removed from the rivers. The commitment of the Environmental Department (DIREN), along with collaboration with the municipalities, demonstrates the collective effort to preserve the rivers and their fragile ecosystem.
During this cleaning campaign, the Environmental Department (DIREN) reminds people of the following good practices:
- Maintain canals, riverbanks, and slopes (clearing, pruning trees, collecting waste, etc.),
- Regularly check that nothing obstructs the proper water flow,
- Avoid leaving anything in or around the rivers that can be carried away by water,
- In case of heavy rainfall, swimming is strongly discouraged, and it is important to stay informed about safety instructions and follow them.
