Mexico City, one of Latin America's largest cities, is currently facing a severe water crisis due to a combination of factors. The city has been grappling with low rainfall attributed to climate change, rapid urban expansion, and outdated water infrastructure. As a result, authorities have implemented strict limitations on water extraction from reservoirs.
The scarcity of water has led to significant challenges for residents, with many struggling to access this essential resource. The situation is particularly dire for individuals like Lorena Cruz, who rely on underground reservoirs for water. Despite being aware of the legal implications, Lorena and her neighbors continue to draw water from these sources to meet their basic needs.
The water shortage is widespread, affecting all 21 million residents in Mexico City's metropolitan area. The city primarily sources its water from the Kutzamala reservoir system and underground aquifers. However, both these water sources are under immense strain, with reservoir levels dropping below 40% capacity and aquifers being overexploited.
The current drought conditions, exacerbated by a drier-than-normal rainy season, have further exacerbated the water crisis. Experts warn that the situation could deteriorate further, potentially leading to a complete depletion of water supplies in the coming months.
While some officials have reassured residents about the continuity of water supply, many individuals have resorted to purchasing water from trucks, with costs ranging up to 2,000 pesos per delivery. The reliance on truck-delivered water highlights the severity of the situation and the challenges faced by residents in accessing clean water.
A study conducted by Universidad Autonoma revealed that a significant portion of the water supply is lost due to leaks, some of which are caused by aging infrastructure, including pipes that are over a century old. Despite these challenges, investments in water infrastructure have been declining over the years, further exacerbating the crisis.
While the government has initiated measures to ration water distribution and urged citizens to conserve water, the situation remains critical. The lack of transparency from the Mexico National Water Management agency regarding water supply levels and infrastructure conditions has raised concerns among the public.
As Mexico City continues to grapple with the water crisis, residents are left with no choice but to wait for water deliveries or find alternative means to secure this vital resource. The ongoing challenges underscore the urgent need for sustainable water management practices and investments in modernizing the city's water infrastructure.
