Minister Nizar Baraka acknowledges Morocco’s ongoing drought issues despite recent rainfall and snowfall. While there is a noticeable decrease in drought severity, improvements in dam storage and water supply have been observed. Key regions have reported significant rainfall, and the government emphasizes the importance of proper water resource management to address remaining challenges.
Nizar Baraka, the Minister of Equipment and Water, recently discussed Morocco’s ongoing struggle with drought, despite recent rainfall and snowfall across various regions. He highlighted the structural drought crisis has not subsided but acknowledged improvements. During the “Nokta Ila As-Satr” program on Al-Aoula, he confirmed the decrease in drought intensity and significant positive impacts from the recent rainfalls.
The minister elaborated on the consequences of the rainfall, stating it positively affected dam reservoirs, potable water supplies, groundwater levels, and the agricultural sector. Regions like Chefchaouen, Taza, and Taounate experienced over 300 millimeters of rainfall, while Rabat and Beni Mellal recorded more than 170 millimeters. Notably, snowfall covered an area of 11,000 square kilometers, indicating significant improvement compared to previous years.
Furthermore, Baraka informed that the current water storage in dams has reached 6 billion cubic meters, amounting to over 35% of total capacity. He remarked on the considerable filling of dams, with 1.4 billion cubic meters added in just ten days. Four major basins—Loukkos, Tensift, Oum Er-Rbia, and Moulouya—have also surpassed 50% capacity.
The recent rainfall contributed to a reduction in drought levels, with Morocco now categorized as experiencing moderate drought, a decrease of 18% compared to average annual levels. However, regions such as Tensift, Souss, and the southern provinces still face drought challenges. Conversely, areas like Oued Noun, Ziz, and Ghriss are no longer under severe drought, which is expected to ensure adequate drinking water supplies for cities like Errachidia and Zagora for the foreseeable future.
Despite expressing optimism, Baraka emphasized the urgency to implement royal directives aimed at optimized water resource management. This includes enhancing rainwater storage through dam construction, which is projected to take between 6 months and 3 years. He concluded by announcing a potential storage capacity increase in dams to 26 billion cubic meters by the year 2030, with 20 billion cubic meters anticipated in total.
In conclusion, while Morocco continues to grapple with the lasting effects of drought, recent rainfall and snowfall have brought about substantial improvements. The current dam storage levels and adequate groundwater supplies reflect a positive trajectory. However, ongoing commitment to efficient water resource management is essential to sustain these gains and address the challenges that remain in drought-affected areas.
Original Source: fesnews.media
