Sölden wastewater plant prepares to restart biological treatment

Sölden’s wastewater treatment plant is expected to gradually resume biological treatment next week, the Tyrol state government said, as repairs after a mudslide make “decisive progress,” according to ORF. The mudslide badly damaged the plant in late July.

The facility was out of operation for months. Wastewater that had received only mechanical treatment was temporarily discharged into the Ötztaler Ache river. The state has since monitored water quality along the Ache and as far as the Inn river.

Measurements have found no unusual water-quality readings or critical pollution in indicators including pH, oxygen saturation and nutrient levels, the state said. However, tests continue to show elevated concentrations of E. coli bacteria.

The state has imposed a ban on boating across the Ache, including rafting, and advises against swimming and other water sports. Dogs should also be kept out of the water. Those recommendations remain in place despite recent tests showing a slight improvement, public health officer Barbara Schmid said on Friday.

E. coli can cause gastrointestinal illness and can enter the body if water is swallowed, droplets are inhaled or contaminated hands touch food. Children, older people, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable. Anyone who comes into contact with the water should wash affected skin, clothing and hands thoroughly.

Monitoring will continue until the plant is fully operational and repairs are complete. Weekly samples are planned at four points above and below the plant, as well as from the Inn.