Rio Grande communities take over water supply wells in Uyuni

YLB Statement

This is an automated translation of the press release issued in Spanish

The National Strategic Public Company of Bolivian Lithium Deposits (YLB) denounces, before the public opinion, the seizure of water supply wells to the Industrial Complex and the YLB Workers' Camp, south of the Salar de Uyuni, by leaders of the Community of Río Grande, under the argument of defense of water resources.

In this regard, YLB socialized with the communities in 2023, the sustainable management of water, according to technical studies, without affecting the aquifers in the area.

We regret that the pressure measure arose after the awarding of one of YLB's services to a cooperative belonging to another neighboring community, a fact that is evident in the Resolutive Vote, of March 31, 2024, issued by the leaders, which in Point 4 states verbatim: “Do not allow the only direct benefit such as the dump truck rental service of the Community of Río Grande to be usurped by other companies outside of Río Grande.

We urge these leaders, who maintain the pressure, to establish a sincere dialogue in favor of the region and the country.