Silala River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Silala River |
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Loa and its tributaries San Pedro, Silala and Salado Rivers
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| Countries | |
| Department (BO) | Potosí |
| Region (CL) | Antofagasta |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | c. 4400 m asl |
| River mouth | Inacaliri River |
| Length | 8.5 km |
The Silala River is a special river because it flows between two countries: Bolivia and Chile. It starts from natural springs in Bolivia and then flows into Chile. This makes it an international river.
For a long time, there was a big disagreement between Bolivia and Chile about the Silala River. Chile said it was a natural international river. This meant both countries should share its water.
Bolivia, however, said it wasn't a natural river. They believed the water only flowed into Chile because canals were built over 100 years ago. Bolivia argued that without these canals, the water would stay in Bolivia.
The International Court Case
In 2016, Chile took the disagreement to the International Court of Justice. This is a special court where countries can solve their problems peacefully. Chile wanted the court to confirm that the Silala was an international river.
When Bolivia presented its side, they agreed that the Silala was indeed a river. But they still argued about the canals. Bolivia said these man-made structures caused 30% more water to flow into Chile.
The Court's Decision
Finally, in 2022, the International Court of Justice made its decision. The court ruled that the Silala is truly a river. It also said that Chile has a fair and reasonable right to use the water from it. This decision helped to settle the long-standing disagreement between the two countries.
See also
- Dispute over the Status and Use of the Waters of the Silala
In Spanish: Río Silala para niños
