Tunisia’s plight in the face of persistent drought continues to concern authorities who recently announced the extension of restrictions on drinking water and its use in agriculture until further notice. These measures, initially put in place in March, are a direct response to a drought that has been raging in the country for already five years.
The situation is increasingly alarming, with dams gradually emptying and water resources decreasing considerably. The Chiba dam, located near the town of Korba, has been completely dry since April. Faced with this critical situation, the Tunisian government has no choice but to take drastic measures to preserve the remaining water resources.
In March, the authorities began to ration drinking water by cutting it off at night and banned its use in agriculture. This decision was taken in order to avoid wasting water and preserve the stocks available for the essential needs of the population. The original deadline of September 30 has been extended, showing the urgency of the situation.
In addition to restrictions on drinking water, authorities have also banned the use of this valuable resource for non-essential activities such as washing cars, watering green spaces and cleaning streets and public places. Sanctions, ranging from fines to imprisonment, are provided for those who violate these prohibitions.
Tunisia is facing a water crisis that is endangering the country’s population, agriculture and economy. The consequences of this prolonged drought are serious and require urgent attention. It is crucial for the authorities to put in place long-term solutions, such as improving water infrastructure, promoting sustainable water management and raising public awareness of the importance of preserving this precious resource. .
In conclusion, the situation in Tunisia remains worrying in the face of a devastating drought. The authorities are taking strict measures to manage the water crisis and preserve the remaining resources. However, longer-term actions are needed to address this major challenge and ensure an adequate water supply for the Tunisian population.