Water plant and tourism boost for Contadora

CONTADORA, once the home of the exiled  last Shah of Iran, and a favorite base for whale watching,  is a step closer to solving its water problems, and boosting  its tourism industry  as the Water and Sewage agency (Idaan) calls for bids for the construction of  a $13.5 million drinking water and sewage treatment plant on  the island.

Idaan said that the new system aims to meet the needs of the 160 inhabitants of the island as well as to help expand its tourism infrastructure. The island  has seven beaches, eight hotels and numerous rental properties. It is well-known as a place for whale watching and diving.

The project is part of the $150 million Idaan investment plan for this year.

The bids for the project will be opened Feb. 19.