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Environment

Morocco’s dam levels see slight boosts amid ongoing water challenges

Tuesday 04 February 2025 - 17:00 By: Dakir Madiha

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Recent rainfall and snowfall have provided a much-needed reprieve to Morocco's reservoirs, though the nation continues to grapple with significant water shortages. Data from the public water monitoring platform Maa Dialna highlights that several major dams experienced increased filling levels between February 1 and 3. However, overall reservoir storage decreased slightly, standing at 4,669.4 billion cubic meters compared to 4,790.03 billion cubic meters recorded on January 2.

Key dams benefit from precipitation

The Ahmed El Hansali dam received over 1.2 million cubic meters of water, raising its filling rate to 5.5%. The Oued El Makhazine dam, one of Morocco's largest, saw an increase of 0.6 million cubic meters, reaching a 68.8% fill rate.

Other critical infrastructure also recorded gains. The Mohammed V dam now stands at a 45.6% filling rate following a 0.6 million cubic meter boost, while the El Wahda dam gained 0.7 million cubic meters, bringing its capacity to 39%. Similarly, the Idriss I dam rose by 0.8 million cubic meters to a 24.6% filling rate, and the Dar Khrofa dam now stands at 14.1% after gaining 0.5 million cubic meters.

Nationwide optimism tempered by challenges

Moroccans welcomed the rainfall and snow with optimism, especially after a prolonged period of declining water resources. However, experts caution that the country still faces severe climate-related challenges. Rainfall remains over 40% below normal levels, water reserves have dropped by 75%, and groundwater resources are depleting at an alarming rate.

To combat these issues, the government has implemented a series of water management policies. These include the construction of desalination plants, the promotion of water-saving practices in agriculture and industry, and regulations on water usage for businesses such as public bathhouses, or hammams, in major cities like Casablanca.

Sustainable solutions remain critical

While recent precipitation has provided some relief, sustainable water management remains essential for addressing Morocco's water crisis. Comprehensive strategies to tackle the nation’s dwindling water supply are key to meeting future demands, particularly as climate change continues to exacerbate the situation.

Hopes remain that additional rainfall in the coming months will further alleviate the pressure on Morocco's water resources.