Addressing Water Scarcity: Casablanca's Measures Amidst Drought

Friday 26 January 2024 - 10:46

The city of Casablanca grapples with a pressing challenge: how to reduce water consumption in public bathhouses while safeguarding the livelihoods of workers amidst an unprecedented two-year drought.

Responding to this dilemma, authorities in the Casablanca-Settat region have implemented stringent conservation measures. These include the closure of public bathhouses and car washes, along with a prohibition on street cleaning with water on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays each week.

Ahmed Afilal, Casablanca's deputy mayor, highlighted the precarious situation faced by public bathhouses, already reeling from the impact of the COVID-19 crisis. He stressed the importance of striking a delicate balance between conservation objectives and economic stability within the sector.

The city's primary focus lies in minimizing waste and curbing excessive water usage. One proposed solution involves utilizing well water instead of potable water in public bathhouses, among other initiatives currently under review as part of the conservation drive.

Authorities are actively encouraging owners of bathhouses and car washes to adopt more efficient washing methods and technologies. Additionally, new regulations prohibit the use of potable water for cleaning streets, public areas, and green spaces.

In terms of green space management, the outright ban on planting grass whether for institutional or private purpos has been instituted. Landscaping companies and nurseries have been duly cautioned, with penalties outlined for non-compliance. Moreover, the watering of parks, sports fields, and the filling of public and private pools are subject to strict regulation under the prevailing emergency orders.

Overall, these measures underscore Casablanca's commitment to addressing water scarcity through a combination of regulatory action and resource-efficient practices, with a keen awareness of the need to balance environmental concerns with economic considerations.