Mare-aux-Vacoas Reservoir Drops to 36.6% — CWA Urges Water Saving
Mauritius's main reservoir is critically low at 36.6% capacity, prompting the Central Water Authority to call for urgent conservation measures.
By MauritiusNews Editorialabout 1 hour ago👁 0 views
Mauritius is facing a growing water supply concern as the Mare-aux-Vacoas reservoir — the island's largest and most important freshwater source — has dropped to just 36.6% of its capacity, according to the Central Water Authority (CWA).
The CWA, the government body responsible for water production and distribution across Mauritius, has issued a public appeal urging residents and businesses to use water wisely as levels continue to fall.
**Why Mare-aux-Vacoas Matters**
Located in the central highlands of Mauritius near Vacoas-Phoenix, Mare-aux-Vacoas is the country's largest reservoir. It supplies a significant portion of the drinking water used by households, hotels, and industries across the island. When its level drops sharply, the knock-on effects are felt island-wide — from reduced water pressure in homes to scheduled supply cuts in certain districts.
A reading of 36.6% is considered critically low, particularly if dry weather conditions persist. Mauritius typically relies on seasonal rainfall to replenish its reservoirs, and any prolonged dry spell during the hotter months puts the entire water network under stress.
**What the CWA Is Asking**
While the CWA has stopped short of announcing formal rationing measures, the authority is calling on the public to adopt responsible water habits immediately. This includes avoiding unnecessary garden watering, fixing leaking pipes and taps, limiting car washing, and being mindful of daily household consumption.
The CWA also manages a network of pumping stations and treatment plants that depend on adequate reservoir levels to function efficiently. If levels continue to fall, the authority may be forced to introduce rotational water cuts — a measure that has been used in past dry seasons and that significantly disrupts daily life.
**A Recurring Crisis**
This is not the first time Mauritius has faced a water stress situation. The island has experienced periodic shortages, particularly between September and January, when rainfall is less predictable. Climate change has made these periods more unpredictable, with longer dry spells becoming more common.
The government has previously acknowledged the need for long-term investment in water infrastructure, including new reservoirs, leak reduction programmes, and demand management strategies. However, short-term conservation by the public remains the most immediate tool available.
**What This Means for Residents**
If you live in Mauritius, now is the time to check for leaks in your home plumbing, reduce non-essential water use, and store water where possible. Businesses — especially those in hospitality — should review their consumption practices. If the level continues to fall, scheduled cuts could be announced at short notice, affecting daily routines across the island.
Residents can contact the CWA or check its official communications for updates on water schedules in their area.
Source: Le Défi Media
The Mare-aux-Vacoas reservoir in central Mauritius has fallen to 36.6% of its total capacity, according to the Central Water Authority (CWA). This is considered critically low and has prompted a public conservation appeal.
What is the CWA and what does it do in Mauritius?−
The Central Water Authority (CWA) is the Mauritian government body responsible for producing, treating, and distributing drinking water across the island. It manages reservoirs, pumping stations, and water supply networks for households, businesses, and public institutions.
Will there be water cuts in Mauritius due to the low reservoir level?−
No formal rationing has been announced yet, but the CWA has urged residents to conserve water urgently. If reservoir levels continue to fall, rotational water cuts — a measure used in previous dry seasons — could be introduced across various districts of Mauritius.
