An undeclared strike of fallen pens has been in place since the end of February 2025 in various Las Palmas administrations due to the "recreational" projects planned in the El Veril ravine, in the south of Gran Canaria, according to what Maspalomas24H learned this Friday. Public officials have decided not to sign documents related to the project to adapt the El Veril ravine to the new territorial regulations, alleging undue pressure and concerns about their professional careers.
The conflict began when the unions of civil servants and public administration decided to defend strict control over the measures that regulate the course of the El Veril ravine. The civil servants fear that a DANA (Isolated Depression at High Levels) will affect the area and turn the south of Gran Canaria into a 'Valencia 2', with serious environmental and social consequences.
A DANA, also known as a "gota fría" (cold drop), is a meteorological phenomenon that can cause intense rainfall, violent storms and drastic temperature changes. These events can have significant effects on areas such as El Veril in Playa del Inglés at its approximate coordinates 27,7°N and 15.5°W. Historical data shows that rainfall is most frequent in autumn and winter, with an annual average of around 250 mm. However, during a DANA, rainfall can be much more intense and cause significant flooding.
The strike of the fallen pens takes place in the midst of the silence of the administrative progress of this procedure that is brewing in Las Palmas and Tenerife and has temporarily paralyzed the signing of essential documents for the development of the project to modernize the El Veril ravine, which includes the construction of Siam Park. This project seeks to revitalize the area by creating tourist infrastructure and improving public spaces on land of a public channel through an occupation of public land by people from outside the south of Gran Canaria.
Officials have expressed concern about the pressures they could face if a DANA affects the area, putting their professional careers and integrity at risk. Trade unions have supported the officials, ensuring that any measures taken must guarantee the safety and well-being of all those involved. Meanwhile, officially, local authorities are seeking a solution that will satisfy all parties involved and allow the project to move forward without compromising the integrity of the officials.
