Naalakkersuisut and Avannaata Kommunia have reached a common understanding on a solution for the water barrier zone in Ilulissat.
There is now laid a plan to move and narrow the so-called water barrier zone at Ilulissat. The zone is supposed to protect the drinking water, but it has been the subject of debate several times, as it places many limits on the use of motorized means of transport in the city.
Naalakkersuisut and Avannaata Kommunia state in a joint announcement that a common understanding has been reached for a solution that will release parts of the water barrier zone for urban development and activities, as well as a possible new road to the airport in the long term.
According to the two parties, Ilulissat’s drinking water is collected from several smaller lakes, all of which are surrounded by a water barrier zone.
“However, the water in these lakes originates from the same catchment further up in the water system. By moving the water intake to the lake that makes up the majority of the collection from the water catchment, the boundary of the water barrier zone can be narrowed without reducing the amount of water to the city,” write Naalakkersuisut and the municipality.
New potential water lake must be investigated
Investigations are also being initiated into a potential new water lake located at Kangerluarsuup Qinngua (Bredebugt). Here, data on water quality and water inflow must form the basis for an assessment of whether the lake can be included in the drinking water supply in the future.
Mayor Lars Erik Gabrielsen (S), expresses satisfaction that Naalakkersuisut and the municipality have agreed:
– It opens up more opportunities in the future and helps to develop the city.
– This is both beneficial for motorized driving, dog sleds, which feel the limitations of the water barrier zone on a daily basis, while at the same time protecting our drinking water, he says.
Now former naalakkersuisoq for business, raw materials, energy, the area of justice and equality, Naaja H. Nathanielsen (IA), agrees:
– With the solution that has now been chosen, we can handle the current challenges in the water supply and at the same time create a better framework for the city’s continued development, she says.
