95.7% Full Reservoirs: Recent Rains End Water Scarcity Fears for Now

Mauritius’s water reservoirs are at near-capacity, a significant improvement from this time last year, thanks to recent heavy rainfall. The country’s three largest reservoirs—La Nicolière, Piton-du-Milieu, and Midlands—have reached 100% capacity. The largest reservoir, Mare-aux-Vacoas, is at nearly 97%.

The overall water storage capacity is now at 95.7%, a stark increase from 82% at the same time in 2024.

This equates to 88.2 million cubic metres of stored water out of a total capacity of 92.2 million cubic metres.

While this offers a sense of relief, officials have stressed the importance of responsible consumption due to the system’s inherent fragility.

The positive trend is also visible in other reservoirs. Bagatelle is at 97.9% and Mare-Longue at 93.9%. La Ferme, while lagging at 78%, has significantly improved from 62% last year.

The total volume of water has increased by nearly 12.6 million cubic metres over the past year, providing a critical buffer for the upcoming dry season.

The report also highlights that the high water levels aren’t solely due to rain. Authorities credit the use of boreholes and “containerized pressure filter plants,” which capture and treat surface water from rivers.

These systems have been crucial in stabilizing the water supply, even during periods of low rainfall.

The current situation is a stark contrast to the rapid decline seen last year. In June 2024, reservoir levels were above 90%, but within two months, they plummeted to a critical 30-40%.

This sharp drop serves as a powerful reminder that current reserves are only a temporary respite if water consumption isn’t managed carefully.

Source: Le Mauricien