DR1 Daily News - Dominican Republic

Senator Félix Bautista (Fuerza del Pueblo – San Juan de la Maguana) has voiced a definitive rejection of proposed mining exploitation in the Cordillera Central, warning that mining is an existential threat to the region’s water supply and the integrity of the Sabaneta Dam. He is an advocate of turning San Juan de Maguana into a mecca for water storage ventures.

The senator’s remarks come amid heightened tensions in the province, following a 12-hour general strike that paralyzed the area as residents protested potential gold extraction. Bautista cautioned that mining operations would necessitate diverting the San Juan River, a move he claims would lead to water contamination and jeopardize the primary tributary feeding the Sabaneta Dam.

Environmental and legal risksDuring a press conference, Bautista emphasized the strategic importance of the Cordillera...