A plan has now been drawn up to move and narrow the so-called water barrier zone at Ilulissat. The zone is intended to protect 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 town.
In a joint statement, the Government of Greenland and the Municipality of Avannaata state 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 obtained 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 area further up the water system. By moving the water intake to the lake that constitutes the majority of the collection from the water catchment area, 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 to be investigated
Studies are also being initiated of a potential new water lake located at Kangerluarsuup Qinngua (Bredebugt). Here, data on water quality and water inflow will 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 reached an agreement:
- This opens up more opportunities in the future and helps develop the city.
- This is both beneficial for motorized driving, dog sleds, who daily feel the limitations of the water barrier zone, while protecting our drinking water, he says.
Now former naalakkersuisoq for business, raw materials, energy, the justice sector and gender 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.
