A year has passed since the devastating DANA struck the Valencian Community, yet recovery efforts are still far from finished. Of the €2.36 billion allocated to eliminate the aftermath of the disaster, regional authorities have managed to spend only a quarter of the funds. This means that 74% of the budget remains unused, and many towns and villages are still living among ruins.
In municipalities like Paiporta, Catarroja, and Sedaví, key facilities have yet to be restored: schools, libraries, sports centers, and even swimming pools. The reinforcement works on the Barranco del Poyo riverbed have been delayed, leaving the threat of new floods looming. Residents complain about the lack of basic amenities—elevators are out of order, many cars have been written off, and getting around town has become a real challenge.
Bureaucracy slows down recovery
Authorities cite complicated procedures and a shortage of specialists as reasons for the slow pace. Despite promises to speed things up, by September 2025, much of the infrastructure remains in disrepair. Of the €1.49 billion allocated to directly support families and businesses, just over half has been paid out. In 2024, only €292 million of the €700 million provided by the state has been spent so far.
The spending plans seem overly optimistic: even by the most ambitious estimates, by the end of 2025, around one billion euros will remain unspent. This has sparked frustration not only among residents but also among local authorities, who are demanding more flexibility and autonomy in allocating the funds.
Social and emotional consequences
Recovery after DANA is about more than just repairing roads and buildings. People are still feeling the effects of the disaster: many have lost their homes, businesses, or way of life. In Paiporta, where the damage was most severe, hundreds of millions have been spent restoring the metro and other key services, but a full return to normality is still a long way off. Experts estimate that complete recovery will take at least six or seven years.
Psychological trauma and a sense of abandonment only make things worse. Residents say they lack not only material, but also emotional support. Authorities promise to speed up the process, but so far changes are happening too slowly.
Political disagreements and calls for change
The issue of recovery has become a source of heated debate between the regional and central governments. Both sides blame each other for inefficiency and delays. Meanwhile, municipalities are calling for bureaucracy to be reduced and for more freedom in decision-making to speed up the return to normal life.
One year after DANA, the Valencian Community is still grappling with the aftermath of the disaster. Most of the allocated funds have yet to reach those in need, and recovery remains sluggish. For thousands of local residents, a return to normal life is still a distant promise.
