Restrictions on potable water use to begin August 10 due to drought
Restrictions on the use of potable water for activities such as washing cars, watering gardens, and filling swimming pools will be implemented starting August 10. These measures, approved by the Cabinet through the Central Water Authority Dry Season Regulations 2026, aim to ensure sustainable water resource management in response to rainfall deficits and critically low reservoir levels. The restrictions also apply to cleaning buildings, entrances, and sidewalks, as well as watering lawns and hedges, and irrigating sugarcane. However, vegetable irrigation will continue without restriction. As of August 4, reservoir levels averaged 61.7% capacity, a significant drop from 92.7% at the same time last year. The Ministry of Energy and Public Utilities and the Central Water Authority have been conducting a public awareness campaign for several weeks, urging water conservation. An exception to these restrictions is made for individuals who legally hold rights to use water from a watercourse.
