Martorell water restrictions are sparking controversy as the town council approves fines of up to €750 for residents collecting water from public fountains.
The new measure, passed on Monday with support from both Junts and PSC governing parties, specifically prohibits filling containers of any kind at municipal water sources.
Martorell Water Restrictions Target Domestic Use
The updated coexistence ordinance explicitly bans using fountains to “accumulate water, using jerry cans, bottles or any utensils that allow its storage.” Consequently, residents without reliable home water supply now face significant penalties for accessing what many consider a basic necessity.
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Furthermore, the council claims the measure has support from 85% of the population.
Mayor Xavier Fonollosa admitted the policy aims to “make squatting more difficult” while “preserving social cohesion and coexistence.” However, opposition parties and social organisations have strongly criticised the approach. ERC demanded the measure’s withdrawal, calling it “disproportionate” and creating “a climate of criminalisation” against vulnerable residents.
Meanwhile, Movem Martorell announced they will challenge the ordinance in court to “stop it,” arguing the text creates “legal insecurity” because technically it could fine someone “just for filling a water bottle.”
Residents Express Desperation Over Basic Needs
Local residents already struggling with water access expressed shock and frustration. “What harm are we doing?” asked one man filling two 16-litre containers while explaining his elderly parents depend on this water for drinking, cooking and washing. Another resident, who gave a pseudonym, described walking over 500 metres daily to find functioning fountains since his building lacks reliable water supply.
Social organisations have condemned the measure as “classist” and part of a “declared war against the poor, squatters and the most vulnerable.” Additionally, ECAS (Catalan Social Action Entities) called the decision “ridiculous and misplaced” for punishing people collecting water out of necessity while ignoring water waste and leakage issues that significantly impact public bills.
This situation reflects broader housing challenges in the region, where changing household patterns and affordability issues continue to strain public resources. The controversy also highlights how urban planning decisions can have unintended consequences for different community segments.
Martorell’s approach mirrors similar measures taken a decade ago in Salt, where the council closed all municipal fountains citing excessive costs and public health risks. The current debate raises fundamental questions about water access rights and municipal responsibility toward all residents, regardless of their housing situation.
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