The Nicolière Reservoir Declines - Kreepaloo Sunghoon: "Small Planters Are Concerned"
The Nicolière Reservoir is facing a significant decline, with its water level dropping to 55.1%. This situation has raised concerns among small planters in the North of the island as they grapple with the effects of drought. The water supply network is fragile, leading to dry fields and anxious farmers. Authorities are taking measures to prevent a major water crisis in the region.
In the North, anxiety grows as water levels decrease. The Nicolière Reservoir, crucial for the area's water supply, is currently at a critical level. On November 10, the reservoir was recorded at only 55.1% of its capacity, highlighting the vulnerability of the water system affected by ongoing drought.
In response, the Central Water Authority (CWA) has implemented strict measures to conserve available water reserves. The irrigation of sugarcane has been reduced from three times to two times a week and has now been completely halted. This decision aims to prevent a shortage of potable water in residential areas. However, it poses challenges for some small planters who are also experiencing reduced water pressure and shortages across various localities in the North, particularly in elevated areas.
The Ministry of Public Utilities is aware of the severity of the situation and has taken action. According to a source close to the matter, the CWA has acknowledged the limitations of the Nicolière Reservoir and is exploring temporary solutions to mitigate disruptions in water distribution. "Currently, the Ministry and the CWA are focusing on a new strategy: the introduction of Containerised Pressure Filters (CPF), which allow for the capture of surface water from rivers and streams," the source explains.
This solution, already tested in some regions, has shown promising results. "CPFs have been installed in the Solitude, Plaine des Papayes, and Goodlands areas to provide relief to many residents in the North. Since their installation, we have received fewer complaints and have achieved a more balanced water distribution. There is a noticeable improvement, but we urge the public to use water judiciously and responsibly," they add.
The Thirsty North
On the ground, planters are sounding the alarm. Kreepaloo Sunghoon, president of the Small Planters Association, warns that the current situation spells trouble for the agricultural community in the North. He claims that the lack of water is seriously impacting crops, and complaints are increasing daily.
"This problem recurs every year, and it is time to find a sustainable solution," he states.
"We receive complaints from planters in the North almost every day. We are currently in a dry period, and the Nicolière Reservoir, which supplies this region, is critically low. Small planters are worried. Some have already harvested and planted seeds. We have approached the authorities to address this situation, but the problem remains unresolved," he emphasizes.
He believes that the situation could discourage many small planters who are already struggling with unpredictable weather conditions and logistical challenges. "There should be better management to prevent losses and improve oversight," he argues.
Kreepaloo Sunghoon also criticizes water leaks, which he believes exacerbate the current crisis. "Water losses are unfortunately a sad reality. Some planters whose lands are near sugarcane fields are also affected," he laments.
Risk of Vegetable Price Surge
For the president of the Small Planters Association, the issue extends beyond just the lack of rainfall. "Water is not lacking in this country; it is the lack of political will that persists," he asserts, stressing the need for reform in water management and better infrastructure oversight.
He also fears a spike in vegetable prices in the coming weeks if the situation does not improve. "If the drought continues and planters cannot irrigate, production will drop, and this will directly affect consumers," he warns.
Among the planters, fatigue and discouragement are becoming more prevalent. In Crève-Cœur, local farmer Foolmaun Coomar expresses his distress. The long-awaited rains are sparse, and with each passing day, the situation worsens.
"The lack of pressure and disruptions in distribution are a real headache," he confides.
He believes that the problem stems not only from the distribution network but also from a lack of prioritization. "Personally, I think the issue is not with distribution. Water is not lacking; it just needs to be prioritized. Without water pressure and with taps barely flowing, how are we supposed to grow our vegetables?" he questions.
According to him, the lack of water and repeated cuts affect both residents and farmers alike. "This problem recurs every year, and it is time to find a sustainable solution," he remarks. His testimony reflects a widespread sense of frustration in several regions of the North, where residents deal with frequent cuts and low pressure. For many, the consensus is clear: drought is no longer an exceptional phenomenon but rather a seasonal reality that calls for better management.