Morocco’s water management know-how showcased at India Water Week

Morocco showcased its expertise and know-how in water resources management, as well as its response to the growing challenges posed by climate change and water scarcity, during the 8th India Water Week, held in New Delhi.

Speaking at a country session, Omar Chafki, Director of the Bouregreg and Chaouia Water Basin Agency and head of the Moroccan delegation, underscored the critical importance of water resource management for Morocco, and the country’s efforts to navigate significant hurdles, including prolonged drought, the erratic distribution of rainfall, dam sedimentation, groundwater overexploitation, and rising water demand.

Morocco, currently in its sixth consecutive year of drought, has managed to address these challenges through a dynamic and forward-looking national water policy, focusing on both demand management and supply enhancement, alongside innovative solutions such as non-conventional water use, water conservation, and safeguarding vulnerable ecosystems. Adaptation to climate change has been central to the country’s approach, Chafki pointed out.

Key to Morocco’s water strategy has been the development of a robust water infrastructure, comprised notably of 154 large dams with a total storage capacity of 20.7 billion cubic meters, alongside 146 small and medium dams, he noted, adding that the kingdom is also advancing projects for 15 seawater desalination plants and 17 water transfer projects, aimed at mitigating regional water shortages.

India Water Week, held sept.17 through 21, serves as an international forum for over 5,000 participants to address pressing issues such as water security, resource sustainability, and climate resilience.

The event focuses on topics like integrated water resource management, infrastructure challenges, and innovative solutions for managing water-related disasters.