Tangier Takes Bold Steps to Conserve Water Amid Severe Drought

Thursday 08 February 2024 - 14:16

Fez - Tangier, the "City of the Strait", is responding decisively to a prolonged and severe drought worsened by climate change by implementing stringent measures to reduce water consumption.

Recently, the Tangier Council introduced strict regulations prohibiting the use of drinking water for irrigating public gardens and washing public spaces. Additionally, refilling private and public swimming pools more than once annually is now banned. These measures are aimed at encouraging responsible water usage and combating wastage at a time when rainfall has been scarce, and Morocco's water reserves are critically low.

Mohamed Boujrmma, head of risk management for the Tangier region, highlighted that specialized commissions have been established to ensure adherence to the new regulations. To offset the restrictions, wastewater will be repurposed for maintaining green areas. Furthermore, hotels, tourist facilities, public baths, and car washes have been instructed to comply with the ban on using drinking water, with potential penalties including license confiscation or closure for non-compliance.

Boujrmma urged citizens and businesses to actively participate in this nationwide initiative, emphasizing the importance of collective effort.

Tangier's actions align with those of other Moroccan cities grappling with unprecedented water shortages attributed to years of exceptionally low precipitation, exacerbated by the effects of climate change. Casablanca, for instance, recently implemented water rationing measures, including prohibiting car washes from using potable water and closing public baths for several days each week.

Recognizing the severity of the situation, the Moroccan government has prioritized safeguarding the limited drinking water supply during this drought emergency. Tangier's proactive conservation policies represent a crucial step toward securing the city's water future in an era characterized by increasing climate instability.