Major water supply disruption forces rationing in fes and Meknes

Sunday 21 - 11:15

Authorities have introduced water rationing measures in the Moroccan cities of Fes and Meknes following a major disruption in the main water supply system serving the region.

The shortage was triggered by a technical failure affecting the water transfer infrastructure linked to the Barrage Idriss Ier. This system is a key source of potable water for both urban centres, and its interruption has significantly reduced available supply.

In response, the regional utility operator, the Office National de l'Électricité et de l'Eau Potable, has implemented an emergency distribution plan. Water is now being supplied according to scheduled time slots in different neighbourhoods to ensure a more balanced allocation of the limited resources.

Local authorities explained that the disruption is linked to a major technical incident affecting a critical part of the water transport network. Repair responsibilities fall under national infrastructure management services, while regional operators are responsible for distribution within cities.

To manage the crisis, technical teams have been deployed continuously to optimize the remaining water supply and minimize the impact on residents. Priority has been given to maintaining essential services and ensuring that urban areas continue to receive minimum water access until normal operations resume.

Officials also stated that repair works are ongoing and being closely monitored, with hopes for a rapid restoration of full capacity once the damaged infrastructure is fixed.

In the meantime, residents have been urged to reduce non-essential water consumption. Authorities stress that responsible usage is necessary to prevent further strain on already limited resources, particularly as water demand continues to rise due to environmental pressures and prolonged scarcity in the region.

The situation highlights the growing vulnerability of urban water systems and the increasing importance of infrastructure resilience in managing essential public utilities.