Tàrrega's indoor swimming pool and gym at the Complex Piscines have been closed indefinitely following a chemical accident on Friday that left nine people injured. According to Mayor Rosa Maria Perelló, three individuals taken to Arnau Hospital were discharged hours later and are now recovering at home. Technicians from the facility have contacted them, and their condition is improving.
The perimeter of the sports zone will remain closed and guarded until tonight, with private security, local police, and Mossos d'Esquadra present. The incident occurred when chlorine was mixed with hydrochloric acid, creating a corrosive reaction.
Damage and Recovery Efforts
Mayor Perelló explained that efforts to remove the chemical product involved acquiring 1,000-litre tanks. However, only a quarter of the mixture could be extracted because the strong corrosive reaction burnt out three motors. This means the chemical process must now subside naturally with time and ventilation.
Firefighters conducted new measurements yesterday, which showed normal values. This allowed controlled access for staff and users to collect their belongings, one person at a time. Despite this improvement, the council warns that material damage could be significant. The mayor noted that the highly corrosive toxic cloud might have affected many elements of the installation. A detailed assessment by experts will be necessary before determining when the facility can reopen. "Everything suggests it will be a long time," Perelló admitted.
Impact and Future Steps
The closure has affected the council, users, and the company managing the sports activities. The economic impact is still being quantified. However, Perelló emphasised that despite the seriousness of the incident, there were no serious casualties.
Sports activities at the outdoor football pitches and the multi-sports centre were preventively suspended over the weekend. Some matches were moved to other facilities, including some in Guissona. The outdoor sports zone and other facilities are expected to reopen tomorrow, while the indoor pool and gym remain shut.
