Business Insider - Mexico City could run out of water in a month unless it rains
“The system normally moves about 15 cubic meters of water a second and provides service to about 22 million people. It’s now operating at 28% capacity.”
The water system that fuels Mexico City could run out in a month, an event locals call "Day Zero."
This article from the Business Insider covers Mexico City's escalating water crisis, highlighting the challenges facing the city's water management policies. Three years of low rainfall and high temperatures have exacerbated the situation, putting the city's water supply in jeopardy.
Mexico City finds itself at a critical point, with the Cutzamala water system operating at only 28% capacity and "Day Zero" looming on June 26. The system, which is vital to the lives of millions of Mexicans, is running dangerously low on water. Several neighborhoods have already seen their water run out, and experts warn that any rainfall might create a "false sense of security."
Gabriel Quadri de la Torre, a federal congressman for the Mexico City district of Coyoacán, emphasizes the urgent need for infrastructure repairs, acknowledging that fixing these issues would cost billions. Crumbling infrastructure contributes significantly to the problem, with about 40% of Mexico City's water lost due to leaky pipes and other issues.
With groundwater and stream flow levels dangerously low in watersheds across the region, Mexico City is bracing for another potentially disastrous season. According to provincial data, snowpack is the lowest it’s been in 50 years. That means aquifers, streams, rivers, and other freshwater systems are unlikely to recharge as things heat up this spring.
Researchers from the National Autonomous University of Mexico propose intensive water capture, using treated residual water for agriculture, and refilling aquifers with surface water as potential solutions. Implementing these measures, however, would cost an estimated $5 billion. In response to the impending crisis, Mexico's National Water Commission announced projects to improve the Cutzamala system and supplement some of the water it is losing.
As Mexico City confronts the realities of a changing climate and declining water resources, the importance of initiatives like Canada1Water (C1W) can’t be overlooked. By fostering collaboration, innovation, and informed decision-making, C1W holds the potential to drive significant change and shape a more resilient water future for Canada and beyond.
Click here to read the article at The Business Insider
“Crumbling infrastructure is also contributing to the problem. About 40% of Mexico City’s water is lost due to leaky pipes and other issues.”