In Guadeloupe, 80,000 residents face regular water shortages due to a crumbling infrastructure, with 70% of water lost through leaks.
Water shortages in Guadeloupe
Approximately 80,000 residents in Guadeloupe regularly lack access to water and must collect supplies from stations set up by local municipalities. This situation has become a significant challenge for the island’s population.
Aging infrastructure blamed
The primary cause of the water shortage is an aging network and "leaky pipes," which result in the loss of 70% of the water produced on the island. This inefficiency has led to chronic shortages and increased reliance on emergency water distribution.
Slow progress in repairs
The water network is currently under repair, but at the current pace, the Court of Audit estimates that it would take 208 years to completely renovate the system. This highlights the scale of the infrastructure challenge and the need for urgent action.
Judicial investigation launched
A judicial investigation was opened in Paris on September 24 to examine the circumstances surrounding the water crisis in Guadeloupe. This marks a formal step toward addressing accountability and potential negligence in the management of the water supply.
