The dike built along the Nosara River continues to be a topic of discussion, this time due to a study that was done on February 16th by the Federated College of Engineers and Architects (CFIA- Colegio Federado de Ingenieros y Arquitectos), in which they indicate and affirm that there are flaws such as loosening materials and cement blocks falling onto the riverbank.
The study was conducted at the request of a group of neighbors and representatives of the Guardians of the Nosara River organization.
The visual inspection by the College on February 16th was done at the end of the dike.
The results of the CFIA inspection indicate observation of loosening of material that makes up the dike at a height of 50 cm (20 inches), generating a difference in level right in the area where the dike ends.
In addition, the CFIA indicated erosion at the base of the slope or internal unevenness of the dike, holes ranging from 2 cm to 9 cm (0.8 to 3.5 inches) deep and surface wearing away of the lining, as well as a gate detached from its anchorage, loose gravel and clusters of stone that are apparently loose.
In light of this situation, the National Emergency Commission (CNE), the institution that financed the 1.149 billion colones ($2 million) project, classified the CFIA report as being “not very serious and subjective” and stated that the dike has not lost its usefulness.
“This report is neither clear nor convincing in its conclusions, lacks scientific proof and is subjective. It simply indicates that indications of erosion at the base of the inner slope or apparent wearing away of the shell that covers it are apparently observed,” said CNE.
Reynaldo Carballo, spokesman for the CNE, indicated that they are waiting for a “more serious and conclusive” report from the College of Engineers.
“As a serious institution, we would expect this college to send a conclusive report of damage and problems showing up in the work, if there are any, to initiate immediate corrective actions,” he assured.
The construction of the dike in Nosara began in November of 2014 and has been criticized by neighbors since its beginning. Among the criticisms are deforestation, the use of soil taken from a hill to create the walls, the use of Chinese cement and the design and environmental impact.
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