The Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development has issued Decree No. 177 of 2026, introducing temporary measures on environmental matters and sustainable development. This action follows the declaration of an Economic, Social, and Ecological State of Emergency in several regions.
The decree aims to address the crisis caused by sudden and extraordinary changes in water dynamics across various river basins. The affected departments include Córdoba, Antioquia, La Guajira, Sucre, Bolívar, Cesar, Magdalena, and Chocó. The goal is to contain the crisis and prevent its effects from spreading further.
Under this decree and during the period of emergency declared by Decree 150 of 2026, the National Authority for Environmental Licenses (ANLA) will have the authority to modify environmental management instruments for hydroelectric projects. These modifications apply specifically when hydrometeorological alerts have been issued by the Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology and Environmental Studies (IDEAM).
Modifications may also require immediate actions focused on operational management schemes designed to buffer extreme hydrological events. The aim is to reduce downstream risks and limit potential impacts on human life, aquatic ecosystems, as well as public and private property.
According to the ministry: “Lastly, the adopted measures must be based on verifiable technical criteria, principles of prevention and precaution, and international standards applicable to risk management in hydraulic infrastructure. They must be carried out by holders of environmental licenses within a maximum term of six (6) months or a shorter period if so determined by the Authority.”
For more information about these measures or access to related documents, readers are encouraged to consult official channels.
