During the Council of Ministers meeting held on Wednesday, María Dolores Pascual Vallés was officially appointed as the new Director General of Water. With this designation, Pascual Vallés will leave her current position as the president of the Ebro Hydrographic Confederation, where she has faced significant floods and has effectively coordinated efforts to minimize their impacts. Additionally, Pascual has managed critical periods of drought, particularly intense in the last two years, affecting almost the entire basin. The threat of Ebro River water transfers and the development of hydraulic works have been other key aspects on her agenda.
Professional career
Holding a degree in Law from the University of Zaragoza and a member of the Senior Corps of State Civil Administrators, Pascual Vallés has held various positions in public administration, including the Chief of Staff of the Minister of Industry, Commerce and Development of the Government of Aragon, and the technical general secretary of the Department of Industry.
Challenges as Director General of Water
In her new role, she will face challenges such as the persistent drought in regions like Catalonia and Andalusia, the implementation of the PERTE for Digitalization, and the application of the European Directives on Water Quality. Protecting sensitive areas such as the Doñana National Park and the Mar Menor will also be a priority on her agenda.
Expectations and future
The extensive experience of María Dolores Pascual Vallés in water resource management is seen as fundamental in addressing these challenges. Her leadership will be crucial in guiding Spain towards a more sustainable water management, adapted to the challenges of climate change.
