It is almost summer, and many families are planning their summer vacations. However, if you are traveling abroad to Uruguay, you may need to take extra precautions. The U.S. Embassy reports a potential shortage of drinking water across Uruguay [1].
What Caused This?
The water shortage is due to a historic drought affecting all of Uruguay. This drought stems from a lack of rain and high temperatures. In March of this year, one of their four reservoirs dried up, leaving three. The lack of water is causing the government to ration water [2].
Government’s Cure
Due to the lower-than-needed amount of water, OSE (Obras Sanitarias del Estado – the national water company in Uruguay) began mixing limited amounts of salt water from separate water sources into its drinkable water reservoirs. This has triggered health concerns from vulnerable people. Many complain of ills. Diabetics, pregnant women, or those with health problems are encouraged to purchase their own drinking water and not drink from the faucet. However, the price and demand for bottled water are too high for many families.
People’s Response
The people in Uruguay are angry. People need water to live. Social organizations and collectives have marched to protest their situation. As part of the immediate measures, the OSE demanded that the government reduce bottled water taxes. They suggested the construction of an infrastructure to avoid dependence on a single water intake. Uruguayans also demanded that a sanitary emergency be declared due to the water deficit.
Where Is Uruguay?
Uruguay is located in South America, on the southeastern side, just below Brazil.
Notes:
- ^ {{Alert: Shortage of Drinking Water in Uruguay}} } (go back ↩)
- ^ {{Uruguay loses major water reservoir}} (go back ↩)
