Morocco’s Capital Region Implements Strict Water Conservation Measures Amid Shortage

A press release issued by the MaaDialna.ma platform, under the Ministry of Equipment and Water, provides information on the strict measures decreed to rationalize the use of water in the Rabat-Salé-Kénitra region. In Rabat, the use of drinking water for washing streets, public squares, roads, as well as watering green spaces, gardens and sports fields is prohibited. Treated water through a connection to the public water network, or through smart reuse water points, will be used instead of drinking water for these activities. New natural grass plantings are also prohibited. Hammams are only open on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. The filling of public and private swimming pools is limited to once a year. Offenders are liable to sanctions: warnings, temporary closures, or even the withdrawal of administrative licenses.

In Salé, the cultivation of grass and the watering of playgrounds and green spaces with drinking water or groundwater are prohibited. As in Rabat, the filling of swimming pools is also limited to once a year and hammams and car washes will only operate four days a week. In Khémisset, similar measures have been taken: washing vehicles and streets with drinking water is prohibited, as is filling swimming pools more than once a year. The cultivation of grass and water-intensive plants is also prohibited. Hammams and car washes will operate for four days a week. Other measures: No more drilling of wells and unauthorized water withdrawal. Local authorities are required to develop programs for the reuse of treated wastewater.

No more cultivation of the two types of watermelons (red and yellow) in the Sidi Kacem area. It is planned to fight against illegal water withdrawals from drinking water distribution networks, wells, ditches, springs and irrigation canals. It has also been decided to reduce the flow from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. for the communities of Sidi Slimane and Sidi Yahya El Gharb, and to suspend it for the other municipalities during this period. Unauthorized water withdrawals, washing and watering with drinking water, as well as water-intensive cultivation are strictly prohibited. Toilets and car washes will only open four days a week. As for investment projects, they must present an impact study on water resources. As for new subdivisions, they must separate stormwater drainage networks from sewerage networks.

According to the platform, these "measures are an essential element of a comprehensive strategic plan to address climate change and the current drought." They also aim to raise awareness among the population about the importance of water conservation and ensuring its availability for present and future generations.