Mauritius small island nation in the Indian Ocean, is facing its worst water crisis in years. A dangerous mix of less rainfall, rising temperatures, and a growing population has put the island’s water supplies under severe strain.
The country’s main reservoirs once nearly full are now holding just 38% of their capacity, a steep fall from the 92% levels seen in early 2024. At the same time, Mauritius’s population has tripled since the 1950s, pushing water demand higher than ever before.
The droughts are becoming more frequent and severe, threatening not just daily life but also the island’s economy, farming, and industries. Restrictions are now in place: people are fined if they wash cars or water gardens. Even the watering of sugarcane crops, vital to the island’s economy, has been suspended. But these temporary bans are not enough to solve the bigger problem.
A team of researchers from Mauritius, France, the US, and Kenya may have a more lasting solution: harvesting rainwater from rivers by building 10 new mini reservoirs across the island. Their study shows that these reservoirs could store up to 500,000 cubic metres of water enough to supply the nation during short dry spells or emergencies.
While this may only cover two days of current national water needs, during severe droughts with enforced restrictions, it could make a life-saving difference.
Mauritius loses a huge amount of its rainwater because when it does rain heavily, the water rushes into rivers and flows straight into the sea. These mini reservoirs would catch this wasted water. Researchers estimate that building these 10 reservoirs would cost around $100 million a big sum for a small nation, but possibly a crucial investment for its future survival.
Another concern is the country ageing water infrastructure. In 2020 alone, Mauritius lost 60% of its water supply through leaking pipes. In dry regions, water is delivered by trucks, but this is expensive and inefficient.
To secure a water-safe future, researchers recommend a mix of nature-based solutions and technology. For example, cleaning up wetlands could help the land absorb more rain. Cities could use smart designs like rain gardens and green roofs to catch water and refill underground reserves. Old leaking pipes must be fixed, and water meters installed to monitor usage and detect leaks in real-time.
Importantly, local communities must be part of this change. Households need guidance and incentives to save water and repair leaks. At the national level, the government needs to raise funds perhaps through partnerships with private companies and support from global climate finance schemes like the Green Climate Fund.
Mauritius growing water crisis is not unique other small island nations face similar threats from climate change. But by acting quickly, combining innovation, natural solutions, and strong community involvement, Mauritius could lead the way in building climate resilience.
As the researchers warn, the time for action is now before water runs out for good.