Government rolls out measures to address water shortage

Government is implementing a series of measures to address the emergency water situation, particularly in Upper Plaine Wilhems, as reservoir storage levels continue to decline.

As at 8 October 2026, water storage levels in the main reservoirs stood at 57.1%, compared with 87.4% in 2025, while storage at Mare aux Vacoas Reservoir stood at 35.7%.

In response to the situation, the Crisis Committee, chaired by the Minister of Energy and Public Utilities, came up with the following measures to be urgently implemented.

Nine boreholes will supply the Mare aux Vacoas Water Supply Zone with an additional 30,000 m³ of water before the end of October 2026 to compensate for the deficit at Mare aux Vacoas Reservoir. Around 4,000 m³ of water will be abstracted from Rivière Pétrin and Rivière Papayes to supply the La Marie Water Treatment Plant. The capacity of the existing pipeline from Mare Longue Reservoir to the La Marie Water Treatment Plant will be increased from 15,000 m³ to 30,000 m³ per day. The 15 containerised pressure filters procured by the Central Water Authority will be put into operation by the end of November 2026. Private water tanker service providers will be enlisted to reinforce water distribution in affected areas. The Mauritius Fire and Rescue Services will assist in providing water to affected localities. A dedicated team of 10 Liaison Officers will be recruited to coordinate the deployment of water tankers in affected regions. Water tanks with a capacity of approximately 30,000 litres each will be installed in different sub-localities.

Extension of Water Tank and Water Pump Grant Scheme

In view of the prevailing water situation and the need for households to maintain adequate water storage, the Water Tank and Water Pump Grant Scheme under the Development Bank of Mauritius is being extended to all households that are not already equipped with water tanks.

The scheme provides for:

A grant of Rs 10,000 for two tanks, one of which must have a capacity of 1,000 litres. A grant of Rs 4,000 for a pump. Assistance of up to Rs 1,000 for fittings.

Monitoring and Financial Support

Dr P. M. K. Soonarane has been appointed on a contractual basis as Director General of Public Utilities to monitor the implementation of the immediate measures and develop medium-and long-term measures for the water sector.

The Ministry of Finance will provide the necessary financial support to mobilise resources to address the challenging water situation.

14 October 2026

Email: gis@govmu.org

Website: https://gis.govmu.org

Mobile App: GIS News

Topics: Water Resources

Back