In 2025, the Ecuadorian government, through the Water Regulation and Control Agency (ARCA), conducted 683 technical inspections across the country to monitor water quality and prevent health risks. These inspections are part of ongoing efforts to maintain a consistent presence in communities and ensure proper management of water resources.
Following these controls, ARCA issued 22 administrative sanctions totaling USD 885,952 in eight provinces: Azuay, Esmeraldas, Galápagos, Guayas, Imbabura, Napo, Santa Elena, and Zamora Chinchipe. The penalties were related to violations involving untreated wastewater discharges that affected rivers, aquifers, and other public water sources.
These measures align with the state’s responsibility to regulate and supervise drinking water and sanitation services. The aim is to confirm that treatment systems operate as intended and to prevent untreated discharges from threatening both communities and ecosystems.
From January 2025 to January 2026, inspections identified several non-compliant discharges. In Cuenca specifically, authorities found untreated wastewater being released into a river. This case highlighted the importance of maintaining continuous technical oversight.
Daniela Limongi, executive director of ARCA, stated: “Water control is permanent and preventive. For this reason, we will strengthen inspections, continuous monitoring and technical tests with certified laboratories to anticipate risks and protect public health.”
The national government emphasized its commitment to maintaining strict standards for water regulation. It reiterated that no unauthorized discharge would be tolerated regardless of claims about rivers’ dilution capacity. Technical oversight will continue with increased rigor and transparency to ensure safe water access for all citizens while protecting natural ecosystems.
