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Casablanca Region Enforces Hammam Closures Amidst Morocco's Deepening Water Crisis

Wednesday 14 August 2024 - 12:00

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In response to Morocco's escalating drought, authorities in the Casablanca-Settat region have reinstated a directive to close traditional public baths, or hammams, three days a week. This measure, outlined by the Ministry of Interior, aims to conserve water amidst severe shortages.

These closures, effective on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays, reflect the urgent need to manage dwindling water resources. Abderrahmane Hadrami, the regional secretary for the Bath Sector at the General Union of Enterprises and Professions, confirmed that hammam owners were instructed to implement these changes immediately. The duration of these restrictions remains uncertain.

Previously, similar measures were lifted during Ramadan to accommodate increased demand. However, with the drought persisting, additional water-saving initiatives have been enacted. These include limitations on car washing and a ban on the use of potable water for cleaning communal spaces and irrigating green areas. Furthermore, the filling of swimming pools is restricted to once a year, with an emphasis on water recycling systems.

The ongoing drought, exacerbated by consecutive dry years, has led to significant water shortages throughout Morocco. In a recent throne speech, King Mohammed VI highlighted the importance of water conservation, calling it a collective national duty.