Battling Drought: Rabat Implements Stringent Water Conservation Measures

Friday 02 February 2024 - 14:15

Amidst worsening drought conditions in Morocco, authorities in Rabat have rolled out stringent measures to curb water consumption for non-essential purposes.

Announced on January 30th by Governor Mohamed Yacoubi, the directive prohibits the use of potable water for tasks such as street cleaning, public garden irrigation, vehicle washing, and filling fountains or pools. Additionally, sports fields and green spaces are mandated to drastically reduce water usage, with residents and businesses urged to utilize reclaimed "gray water" from treatment facilities whenever feasible.

In a bid to conserve water, Rabat's iconic public bathhouses, known as hammams, are now mandated to shutter their operations for three days a week – on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays. These establishments, renowned for their therapeutic mineral baths, have historically been a cultural staple. However, with reservoir levels dwindling, authorities deemed such measures imperative.

This move brings Rabat in line with other Moroccan cities like Casablanca and Tangier, which have already enforced strict conservation protocols. Nevertheless, some business owners reliant on ample water supply have expressed apprehensions over the mandatory closures potentially affecting commerce.

"We acknowledge the importance of responsible water usage, considering its scarcity," remarked Fatima Rhazi, owner of the Almohades Hammam. "However, curtailing our operational hours could significantly impact revenue. We trust that authorities will factor in the implications for local employment and tourism if circumstances improve."

Moroccan policymakers may be compelled to extend stringent water allocation measures across the region. Presently, Rabat's residents are adapting to the latest restrictions in the hope of precipitation returning before reservoirs deplete entirely.