Sewage Spill Returns to Cala La Mosca as Council Refuses to Close Beach

Wastewater once again flowed into the Mediterranean at Cala La Mosca in Orihuela Costa, reigniting concerns over pollution at a beach that lost its Blue Flag status due to prior sewage incidents. The wastewater traveled roughly 70 meters along a normally dry ravine before entering the sea, creating a significant green pool near the promenade.

Despite the worsening discharge, Orihuela City Council failed to restrict access to the beach. Officials claimed recent tests by the Valencian Government’s General Directorate of Water showed no abnormalities and classified the seawater as excellent, giving them no reason to close the beach or implement additional safety measures.

However, residents noted the problem followed a seasonal pattern, with wastewater flows typically controlled throughout the year but increasing sharply in July and August when the population swelled and put pressure on the sewage infrastructure. The source of the latest overflow remained unclear, but a sewage pumping station near the promenade, along with two others near the N-332, could be responsible.

Municipal cleaning teams continuously covered the flooded section of beach, but the water kept returning. The green color and absence of a typical sewage smell caused some visitors to be unaware of the potential danger, with bathers and children seen playing in the contaminated water. Cala La Mosca had previously lost its Blue Flag during the 2023 and 2024 summer seasons and lost the award completely in 2025.

The beach had not regained the certification. Previous spills led to the beach being closed, with recommendations from regional water authorities. A deserted beach during peak tourist season, with residents demanding urgent investment in sanitation infrastructure to prevent further pollution and protect public health.