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Mauritius is currently undergoing one of the driest periods in its history. Summer rains have been waiting since September. To deal with this critical situation, the authorities are imposing a new drinking water restriction regime and the police are now fining wasters. At the same time, criticism is raining down on the national drinking water supplier. Report in Port-Louis.
From our correspondent in Mauritius, Abdullah Earally,
An attraction in normal times, the largest dam on the island, Mare-aux-Vacoas, empties drastically. Usually, the water stretches over nearly 6 square kilometers in the heart of dense vegetation. The decor of the moment is enough to panic Cassam, a regular visitor: “ The tank is only a quarter full. Soil is starting to appear everywhere. »
The seven reservoirs on the island are filled to only 34% of their capacity and only half of this volume could be treated and distributed to the population. In the capital, the region of Pailles, even in normal times undergoes restrictions in drinking water. Bashir Nazeer, a former district president, criticizes the system: “ Water is badly managed, despite all the equipment, despite the budget allocated to the CWA. It is a management problem. »
« We are looking for solutions in this time of great drought”
The CWA, or the Central Water Authority, is a state body, the only one in charge of distributing drinking water on the territory. However, its network continues to deteriorate. Over the past ten years, leaks have increased from 56% to 73%. Hardly overtaken by its promises made in 2014 to modernize the network and ensure access to drinking water 24 hours a day, the government announces better days. Joe Lesjongard, Minister of Public Services, assures him: We are looking for solutions in this period of great drought, while continuing our work to replace dilapidated pipes in order to fully supply Mauritian consumers. »
In the streets, anger is brewing, while religious groups of various denominations organize prayer sessions for rain in different regions.
►Also read: Economic and climate conference: Mauritius’ long road to renewables