The Brazilian state of Paraná is grappling with a severe water crisis, prompting authorities to declare a state of emergency. The primary reservoir system serving the capital, Curitiba, and its metropolitan region has seen its water level fall to a critical 73.55% of capacity.
In response to the prolonged drought, the Paraná state government issued an emergency decree at the beginning of May. This decree imposes a strict six-month prohibition on using treated water from the public network for non-essential activities.
The banned activities include washing sidewalks, patios, and vehicles, irrigating gardens, filling swimming pools, and other recreational uses. The government's move aims to conserve the dwindling water supply for essential needs.
The state's water utility, Sanepar, is actively monitoring the situation. While the company has not yet announced plans for water rationing or rotational supply cuts, it emphasized the critical importance of public cooperation.
Sanepar is urging residents to drastically reduce their consumption. The utility stresses that potable water should be reserved strictly for essential activities such as personal hygiene and food preparation.
The weather forecast for May offers little relief. Predictions indicate continued unfavorable conditions with scarce rainfall and above-average temperatures, which could further exacerbate the water shortage.
The emergency decree grants Sanepar and other water concessionaires in the state the authority to implement rotational supply systems or other restrictive measures if they deem it necessary.
Based on reporting from g1.