The water crisis in Gaza City has reached a critical point as hundreds of thousands of residents have been left without access to clean water. This dire situation has been exacerbated by the Israeli army’s offensive, which resulted in the destruction of the main pipeline supplying water to the city.
Residents of Gaza City, like Faten Nassar, are now forced to walk long distances to find water, often waiting for hours with no relief in sight. The closure of crossings and the ongoing conflict have made it nearly impossible for water trucks to reach those in need. The situation is dire, with no end in sight unless the conflict comes to a peaceful resolution.
The destruction of the pipeline operated by Mekorot has left Gaza City facing a severe water shortage, with only 30% of the population having access to clean water. This has created a daily struggle for survival, as water is essential for basic hygiene, cooking, and drinking.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has displaced the majority of Gaza’s population, leaving many to rely on contaminated wells for water. The Coastal Aquifer Basin, Gaza’s only natural water source, is severely depleted and contaminated, making it unsuitable for human consumption.
The Palestinian Water Authority has reported that over 85% of water and sanitation facilities in Gaza are out of service, further exacerbating the crisis. Desalination plants have also been damaged or shut down due to power and fuel cuts, leaving residents with minimal access to clean water.
The World Health Organization recommends a minimum of 15 liters of water per person per day for survival in emergencies. However, in Gaza City, residents are receiving only 3-5 liters per day, far below the recommended amount.
The situation in Gaza City is dire, with residents facing a daily struggle to find clean water for their basic needs. The international community must act swiftly to address this crisis and ensure that all residents have access to clean and safe water.
