The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has imposed an $80,000 fine on Transporte Rodríguez Asfalto, Inc. (TRA) for violating the Clean Water Act. The construction company discharged stormwater pollutants into the Cañas River during its activities in Aguada, Puerto Rico.

"We are holding TRA accountable under the Clean Water Act which is designed to protect waterways like the Cañas River and prevent pollution that threatens public health and the environment," stated EPA Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia. "Construction activities, if not properly managed, can cause long-term damage to local rivers and ecosystems. In the future, TRA will have to get a construction permit, use better practices, and avoid future discharges in the river."

According to the EPA's findings, TRA commenced construction on a 13-acre site near PR-2 and PR-48 roads in September 2023 without securing necessary permits or installing required erosion and sediment controls. This oversight led to stormwater runoff entering the Cañas River with harmful pollutants affecting water quality.

To address these violations, the EPA issued an administrative order mandating TRA to pay the penalty and undertake corrective measures such as stabilizing soil, controlling erosion, developing a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP), and securing coverage under the EPA’s Construction General Permit (CGP). These steps aim to prevent future discharges into the river.

TRA must submit bimonthly reports to demonstrate ongoing compliance with this order.

The Clean Water Act prohibits discharging pollutants into U.S. waters without a valid permit.

For further details about regulations related to water pollution control, visit the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program website.

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