Minister of Equipment and Water: Morocco Still Faces Drought…

The Minister of Equipment and Water, Nizar Baraka, reported improvements in Morocco’s drought situation following recent rainfall and snowfall, while still highlighting ongoing challenges. Significant rainfall impacts on water reservoirs and agriculture were noted. Current dam storage levels stand at 6 billion cubic meters, with expectations for increased capacity by 2030 as the country strives for improved water management strategies.

Nizar Baraka, the Minister of Equipment and Water, addressed the ongoing drought crisis in Morocco despite recent rainfall and snowfall. He explained that while improvements have occurred, the country remains in a structural drought crisis. During an appearance on the “Nokta Ila As-Satr” program on Al-Aoula channel, Baraka noted a decreased drought intensity, attributing positive impacts to recent rains.

The minister reported significant effects from the rainfall on dam reservoirs, potable water supplies, groundwater levels, and agriculture. Regions including Chefchaouen and Taza registered over 300 millimeters of rain, while Rabat and Beni Mellal received above 170 millimeters. Furthermore, snowfall has covered an area of 11,000 square kilometers, marking a notable improvement from the previous year.

Baraka shared that current water storage levels in reservoirs stand at 6 billion cubic meters, constituting more than 35% of their total capacity. In the past ten days, water storage has increased by 1.4 billion cubic meters, with major basins like Loukkos and Tensift surpassing 50% capacity. The mitigation of drought conditions has brought Morocco to a moderate drought status, an 18% reduction from normal levels.

Nevertheless, certain areas, such as Tensift and the southern provinces, still experience drought conditions, while places like Oued Noun have moved beyond severity. The water resources currently available are projected to last for three years in Errachidia and two years in Zagora. Baraka emphasized the importance of expediting royal directives for efficient water resource management, including rainwater storage through dam construction.

In conclusion, Minister Baraka highlighted that Morocco’s dam storage capacity is 20 billion cubic meters, with 6 billion cubic meters accumulated from recent rains. He expressed optimism for a projected storage increase to 26 billion cubic meters by 2030, underscoring the focus on water resource management and infrastructure improvements.

In summary, Morocco continues to experience challenges related to drought, despite recent rainfall and snowfall efforts. Minister Baraka’s statements emphasize the necessity of continued water resource management and the positive effects of recent weather conditions on water storage and agriculture. The anticipated increase in dam capacity aligns with future water management strategies aimed at enhancing resilience to drought conditions.

Original Source: fesnews.media