Minister Nizar Baraka detailed Morocco’s recent rainfall and its positive effects on water resources, indicating improvements in reservoir levels and a decrease in drought severity. Despite this, some regions still struggle with drought, necessitating enhanced water management efforts to secure future supplies.
Nizar Baraka, the Minister of Equipment and Water, commented on the recent rainfall and snowfall across Morocco, indicating that the country remains in a structural drought crisis. Nonetheless, he noted substantial improvements recently during his appearance on the ‘Nokta Ila As-Satr’ program on Al-Aoula channel, stating that the intensity of the drought is decreasing and recent rains have had a profoundly positive impact.
The minister elaborated on how the rainfall has benefited dam reservoirs, potable water supplies, groundwater levels, and agriculture. Regions such as Chefchaouen, Taza, and Taounate exceeded 300 millimeters of rainfall, while Rabat and Beni Mellal experienced over 170 millimeters. He also highlighted that recent snowfall blanketed a significant area of 11,000 square kilometers, marking an improvement from the previous year.
Baraka disclosed that current water storage in dams has reached 6 billion cubic meters, amounting to over 35% of their total capacity. Significant filling has occurred in the past ten days, adding 1.4 billion cubic meters. Four major water basins—Loukkos, Tensift, Oum Er-Rbia, and Moulouya—have surpassed 50% capacity, contributing to the increased water reserves.
He emphasized that recent rainfall has lowered drought levels, shifting Morocco to a state of moderate drought, which is 18% less severe than the annual average. However, regions such as Tensift and Souss still face drought challenges, while areas like Oued Noun and Ziz have progressed beyond severe drought. These developments are expected to secure adequate drinking water supplies for cities like Errachidia and Zagora, with resources in Errachidia anticipated to last three years and two years in Zagora.
Despite the hopeful outlook, Baraka underscored the urgency of accelerating royal directives aimed at optimal water resource management, particularly for rainwater storage through dam construction. He noted that the time required for dam construction has been shortened to between six months and three years.
In conclusion, Baraka stated that Morocco currently holds a capacity of 20 billion cubic meters in its dams, with 6 billion cubic meters stored due to recent rainfall. He projects that storage may reach 26 billion cubic meters by the year 2030.
In summary, Minister Nizar Baraka addressed the current drought situation in Morocco, noting improvements due to recent rainfall while acknowledging ongoing challenges. With significant increases in water storage and positive impacts on water supplies and agriculture, the country shows promise for the future. However, Baraka emphasized the need for continued efforts in effective water resource management to ensure sustainability and resilience against drought conditions.
Original Source: fesnews.media
