The massive underground sea connecting Cinca and Noguera Ribagorçana

The Litera Alta aquifer covers 900 square kilometers and faces environmental pressures from pollution and extraction.

Generic image of a river flowing through Pre-Pyrenean mountains.
IA

Generic image of a river flowing through Pre-Pyrenean mountains.

The Litera Alta aquifer, a vast underground water body spanning over 900 km², serves as a vital link between the Cinca and Noguera Ribagorçana river basins.

According to the Ebro Hydrological Plan, this aquifer is among the largest in the region. Its boundaries stretch from the Mediano reservoir in the north down to the area of Balaguer and Alfarràs. The Ebro Hydrographic Confederation (CHE) has documented that this 'underground sea' is essential for maintaining the flow of several local rivers.
Technical surveys have identified water layers ranging from 3 to 48 meters in thickness. The water moves through preferred channels across five distinct sections separated by clay barriers. This geological treasure also supports protected natural areas, including the Estanya lagoons and the Orígens Geopark.
Despite its importance, the CHE warns of significant environmental threats. Pollution from urban wastewater, industrial plants, and agricultural runoff poses a risk to water quality. Additionally, the high demand for irrigation and urban supply continues to put pressure on this critical subterranean resource.