Bechtel controversies
Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.
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2000
Cochabamba water privatization controversy
Bechtel was a 27% partner in Aguas del Tunari, a consortium involved in the privatization of Cochabamba’s water utility in Bolivia. Following tariff increases and public opposition, protests and violence led to cancellation of the arrangement. Bechtel later pursued an investment claim, which was ultimately withdrawn after an agreement with the Bolivian government. The episode remains a prominent controversy concerning privatization, affordability, and corporate accountability.