In response to the ongoing drought crisis affecting the Algarve and Alentejo regions, the Portuguese government has announced a series of measures aimed at reducing water consumption and enhancing water management. These initiatives come after the 18th meeting of the Permanent Committee for the Prevention, Monitoring, and Follow-up of the Effects of the Drought, highlighting the urgency of the situation
Urban Water Consumption Reduction
To address the critical water shortage, the government has mandated a 15% reduction in urban water consumption compared to the previous year. This initiative aims to encourage residents and businesses to conserve water and adopt more sustainable practices.
Agricultural Water Usage Cuts
The agricultural sector will see a total reduction of 25% in water consumption, with specific measures including:
- Sotavento Hydro-Agricultural Perimeter: A 50% reduction in watering amounts, offset by reactivating boreholes in non-critical reservoir areas and utilizing water for reuse.
- Funcho Basin: A 40% reduction in irrigation water compared to the same period last year.
- Surface Water Collection: A 15% reduction in surface water collection for irrigation purposes.
Tourism Sector Adjustments
The tourism industry, a vital part of the region’s economy, will also face a 25% reduction in water consumption. This measure is designed to promote responsible water use in hotels, resorts, and other tourism-related facilities, ensuring that the sector contributes to the overall water conservation efforts.
Structural Measures Underway
In addition to immediate consumption reductions, the government is implementing several structural measures to enhance water supply and management:
- Desalination Plant: A new plant in Albufeira is being constructed, with an initial capacity of 16hm3/year, expandable to 24hm3/year.
- Odeleite Dam Water Flow: Increasing water flow to the Odeleite dam by collecting from Pomarão, adding another 30hm3.
- Odelouca Dam Capacity: Enhancing the useful capacity of the Odelouca dam by lowering the collection level.
- Public Mains Interconnection: Boosting the interconnection of the Barlavento and Sotavento public mains.
- Water for Reuse: Increasing the availability of recycled water for irrigation of golf courses and fields.
- Reducing Water Losses: Implementing measures to reduce water losses in both urban and agricultural sectors.
Alentejo Region Initiatives
In the Alentejo region, a significant project has been awarded to connect the Alqueva dam to the Monte da Rocha dam. This connection is expected to improve water distribution and availability, further supporting the region’s agricultural and urban needs.
The government’s proactive approach to tackling the drought crisis reflects a commitment to sustainable water management and the protection of vital resources for future generations. As these measures are implemented, the hope is to mitigate the impacts of drought and ensure a more resilient water supply for the Algarve and Alentejo regions.
