The Crato Multipurpose Hydraulic Development Project (EAHFMC), also known as the Pisão Dam, will cover 10,000 hectares and submerge the existing Pisão village.

A CIMAA source told Lusa that construction of the new village should start in early 2027 and finish by early 2029.

The new village, a replica of the current one, will be built two kilometres north, near Monte da Velha, with 8.1 hectares reserved for expansion.

CIMAA states the residential area will cover "9,600 square meters (m2)" and house "about 114 residences," but may "shift" based on "final compensation or relocation choices" from families, which "significantly shape" the detailed plan.

Housing typologies aim to fit the varied urban frontages in the current village, "from six to sixteen meters," in order to "maintain scale, rhythm, memory, and spirit."

Preliminary housing studies include one-bedroom (T1) to four-bedroom (T4) units, mostly ranging from 80 m² to 150 m².

CIMAA will evaluate and discuss these preliminary studies with residents in May.

Beyond housing, the new Pisão village will feature retail spaces, a parish council, an interpretive centre/memory area, multi-purpose facilities, green zones, walking paths, a viewpoint, parking, and local support structures such as a health extension.

Between 65 and 70 people currently live permanently in Pisão, which will be submerged by the dam.

The Pisão Dam, vital to Portalegre's water resilience, will be funded by the Sustainable 2030 program through the Cohesion Fund, subject to EU approval.

With an investment of over 220 million euros, the dam will ensure water supply, expand irrigation, and enable renewable energy production.

CIMAA presented the new village project to residents today at the Crato Municipal Auditorium.

The session also introduced the multidisciplinary team, including CIMAA and Crato Municipality experts in engineering, environment, social action, sociology, architecture, archaeology, and law, to provide "ongoing, direct support" throughout the process.

This office aims to support families, clarify doubts, and ensure transparent communication.