Health professionals in Puerto Rico signed a letter addressed to the Executive and Legislative branches asking them to address the island’s water crisis and protect people’s health and lives. The letter raises concerns about projects that could affect the karst zone (PC 1079) and the Senate substitute measure (PS 1173 and 1183), which would affect lands designated as specially protected rustic soils (SREP) under Puerto Rico’s Land Use Plan.
The signers call for access to safe, sufficient and reliable water to be treated as a public health priority. They note that drinking water is essential for hydration, food preparation, hygiene and the functioning of health services. The response to this and future crises should consider those at greatest risk from a lack of safe water, including children, older adults, pregnant women and people with chronic illnesses or who need ongoing medical care, and should address barriers that keep lower-income communities from protecting themselves.
The letter says protecting health requires clear, timely public information on water quality and availability, and that government actions should be guided by scientific evidence, equity and accountability. It requests: 1) planning and preparation for future droughts that prioritize drinking water access for the most vulnerable, to prevent illness and death and keep medical care continuous; 2) a public timeline of actions to improve water infrastructure and reduce potable water losses, with quarterly goals and verifiable accountability; and 3) permanent protection of the island’s water sources.