Rabat – Recent forecasts are bringing attention to an important rise in the demand for drinking water across several regions in Morocco.
The increase is due to Morocco’s population growth, urban expansion, and drought which are driving up water consumption in various areas. Much of this demand is centered within the Souss-Massa, Draa-Tafilalet, Guelmim-Oued Noun regions, which have more arid climates, often with less rainfall.
The public platform “Maa Dialna,” linked to the Ministry of Equipment and Water, reported that water demand in Guelmim will climb from 1.06 million cubic meters in 2020 to 8.57 million cubic meters by 2050.
In Sidi Ifni, the report says the demand will nearly double, reaching 1.9 million cubic meters in 2050, compared to 0.99 million in 2020.
Meanwhile, the Tan-Tan region will also experience a notable increase, with demand rising from 0.85 million cubic meters in 2020 to 3.67 million cubic meters by 2050.
The demand shift in Assa-Zag stands out, where water needs will quadruple from 0.44 million cubic meters in 2020 to 1.83 million cubic meters in 2050.
Tata will reportedly see its demand grow from 2.89 million cubic meters to 5.03 million cubic meters over the same period.
Zagoura is also on track for a major rise in demand, doubling from 3.11 million cubic meters in 2020 to 6.27 million cubic meters by 2050.
The projected rise in water demand triggers growing concerns over the future availability of this vital resource in these regions. The figures also show the need for comprehensive strategies to tackle these challenges and secure a steady supply of drinking water in the coming decades.
While recent rainfall and snowfall have raised reservoir levels to 28.4% of their capacity, holding over 4.77 billion cubic meters of water, the Ministry of Equipment and Water warned that Morocco’s water resources remain depleted and under persistent strain.
The government is urging citizens to adopt responsible water use and minimize waste to help address the country’s ongoing water challenges.
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