Considering Quito’s stunning natural history. Quebrada Toroucu is a vital piece of that story. Today we will delve into the importance of Quito’s ravines. These natural formations hold a treasure trove of Ecuador’s natural history.
Quebrada Toroucu is more than just a ravine. It represents a window into Quito’s past. Two hundred years ago Humboldt described the biodiversity found here. The ravines still contain remnants of that diversity.
Destroying the ravines like Quebrada Toroucu means losing a part of our identity. Quito is an Andean city. The ravines are a link to our natural past. Destroying them opens the door to risks and insecurity.
These quebradas are nature’s own hydrological designs. They provide solutions to frequent natural phenomena at zero cost. Disrespecting them leads to tragic social and economic impacts. No budget can reverse the damages. No plan can undo them.
The constant destruction of Quito’s ravines violates several norms. The CÓDIGO ORGÁNICO INTEGRAL PENAL addresses this. The municipality bears the main responsibility for these violations. This responsibility stems from both action and omission.
The municipality should start integral repair works. These works are ordered by the COIP. Failure to act could lead to severe consequences. Article 140 of the COIP mentions “murder”. This applies if someone endangers lives through flooding. It also includes poisoning or any other means.
We must act urgently to face the destruction of our ravines. General and effective measures are needed. These measures must immediately stop the filling of ravines. They must halt the alteration of flows and additional contamination. Throwing garbage and destroying vegetation must end. Modifying the edges of ravines needs to stop. We also need to stop urban projects that promote these destructive acts. This applies throughout the Metropolitan District of Quito.
Quebrada Toroucu and other ravines remind us of our responsibility. We must protect these natural treasures. They are essential to Quito’s identity. They are also vital for a safe and sustainable future. Let’s ensure these quebradas continue to thrive. Let future generations appreciate their beauty and importance.