Drought Causes Historic Low Water Levels in Paraguay River, Disrupting Commerce
The drought in the Amazon has led to historic low water levels in the Paraguay River, disrupting commerce in Paraguay and creating challenges for regional transport. The situation has caused unemployment for many fishermen and threatens agricultural exports reliant on the river. As droughts become increasingly frequent, experts express concerns over climate change’s role in this pattern.
A severe drought in the Amazon rainforest has resulted in the Paraguay River reaching its lowest water levels in over a century, disrupting crucial commerce and transportation in the region. According to Paraguay’s Department of Meteorology and Hydrology, water levels fell to 89 centimeters (35 inches) below the benchmark at Asunción’s port, marking the worst levels in 120 years, with recent years indicating an alarming frequency of similar droughts.
The significant drop in water levels affects Paraguay, a leading agricultural exporter relying on the river for 80% of its international trade. Consequently, approximately 1,600 fishermen have lost their jobs due to the diminished river conditions, leaving numerous boats stranded on the dry banks. One sailor articulated his plight, stating, “I have no way out. It’s a disaster.”
The Paraguay-Paraná waterway, stretching 3,400 kilometers through multiple countries, plays a pivotal role in transporting agricultural products like grain and soy. However, in recent days, drought conditions have halted or delayed over 50% of the river’s shipping capacity, resulting in significant supply chain disruptions and additional costs for Brazil and Bolivia, which rely on the river for shipping iron ore and fuel, respectively.
With no immediate rainfall forecast, industry officials predict substantial losses that could amount to hundreds of millions of dollars. A leading shipping organization expressed concerns about whether these escalating drought patterns will persist, as Paraguay’s energy supply, dependent on the river, faces potential reductions.
Experts have noted that the deterioration of the Paraguay River mirrors a global trend, where stronger droughts arise from issues like population growth, climate change, and poor governance. As Rachael McDonnell from the International Water Management Institute emphasized, the intensity and frequency of droughts continue to rise, severely impacting communities and ecosystems.
The severe drought affecting the Paraguay River underscores the escalating climate crisis with profound economic implications for the region. Local fishermen and the agricultural industry face devastating losses as water levels reach historic lows, disrupting essential shipping routes. Experts warn of a potential shift in weather patterns and reflect broader issues linked to climate change, governance, and resource management. Immediate and long-term strategies are crucial to mitigate risks and bolster the resilience of affected communities and ecosystems.
Original Source: bgdailynews.com
