Water shortage affects daily life

In Tampon, José Vienne waits in line to receive a free pack of water, highlighting the frustration of residents in La Réunion, where an ongoing strike has disrupted the water supply in several communes since October 7. The strike has left many households without access to clean, drinkable water, forcing people to rely on bottled water or alternative methods to make tap water safe for use.

Impact on households and businesses

For José, the water supply at his home has been "unsuitable for consumption" for several days, and he worries about the limited availability of bottled water in local stores. The situation is similar for others, such as Vanessa, a restaurant worker in Tampon, who uses bottled water for cooking and has had to boil tap water for ten minutes before refrigerating it. Both express hope that the crisis will end soon.

Economic consequences for local businesses

Elisabelle Evan, owner of a hair salon in Tampon, has canceled all her appointments due to the water shortage. She is struggling to meet her rent obligations despite the disruption. The lack of water has forced her to close her business, highlighting the broader economic impact of the strike on local commerce and livelihoods.

Strike causes and management response

The water supply disruptions are linked to an unlimited strike by workers in the water management and sanitation sectors. Trade unions have cited deteriorating working conditions and are demanding a 30% salary increase. Meanwhile, CISE Réunion, one of the companies involved, has reported acts of vandalism that have damaged infrastructure, including a regulation equipment in Sainte-Rose and closed valves in Saint-Benoît.

Government and health agency actions

In response to the crisis, the prefecture of La Réunion has requisitioned staff to ensure the maintenance of essential water services and monitor the network for malfunctions. The intercommunal community of the East has also issued notices to service operators, emphasizing their contractual obligations to continue operations and provide bottled water. The Regional Health Agency (ARS) has stated that restrictions on water consumption will remain in place until microbiological test results meet safety standards.