Colombia runs dry. Strict limits imposed

The regulations of the Commission for the Regulation of Drinking Water and Basic Sanitation (CRA) will establish strict limits to protect a resource that is in crisis. Infobae has the details on the new monthly water consumption limits in Colombian homes.

The prolonged drought and visible effects of climate change in Colombia have rung alarm bells for national authorities seeking to guarantee access to water amid a growing water crisis. These extreme conditions have led the government to implement measures to regulate water consumption in Colombian homes. According to statements made to Noticias Caracol by Ruth Quevedo, acting executive director of the Commission for the Regulation of Drinking Water and Basic Sanitation (CRA), starting in 2025, maximum monthly water consumption limits will be established, which will vary according to the altitude of each municipality in the national territory.

The new limits are intended to encourage a more responsible use of water resources and ensure their availability for future generations. From 2025, each household will have a specific limit of cubic metres per month. The limits have been designed on the basis of the altitude of the place of residence, in order to adapt consumption to the climatic and geographical conditions of each region.

In low-lying cities such as Barranquilla, Cartagena and Santa Marta, the monthly limit will be 16 cubic metres per household. Meanwhile, municipalities at medium altitude, including Medellín and Cali, will have a maximum allowed consumption of 14 cubic metres per month. Finally, in cities at high altitudes, such as Bogotá and Pasto, households will have to adjust their consumption to a limit of 13 cubic metres per month. These measures are designed to promote efficient water use and avoid waste in areas most vulnerable to water stress.

In light of these changes, the authorities have recommended that citizens check their water bills to measure their current consumption and verify that it is within the limits set by the new regulations. Adherence to these parameters will be essential to meet the guidelines set by the government and help mitigate the effects of the water crisis.

Water saving recommendations

Water is an essential resource that we must protect and use responsibly. Taking simple steps in your daily life can make a big difference in conserving this resource, ensuring its availability for future generations and helping the planet.

Start by checking your home for leaks in taps, pipes and toilets. A small leak can waste hundreds of gallons of water a month. Fix them immediately to stop further waste and reduce your bill. When washing dishes or brushing your teeth, turn off the tap if you’re not actively using it. Use a glass to rinse when brushing your teeth and wash all your dishes at once to avoid turning the tap on and off all the time.

If you have a garden, water your plants early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid evaporation. Consider collecting rainwater in suitable containers and using it for watering. Also, choose native plants that require less water as they are more adaptable to their environment. In the laundry room, wait until you have a full load before using the washing machine. If possible, adjust the water level according to the amount of laundry. You can also reuse the rinse water for other purposes, such as cleaning floors or watering non-sensitive areas.

In the bathroom, install water-saving devices in showers and toilets. Reducing the length of time you shower can save a significant amount of water. Also, avoid using the cistern as a garbage can, as each flush wastes unnecessary litres and pollutes the environment. Finally, educate your family about the importance of these practices. Small actions taken by many can have a big positive impact on water conservation.

Source: Infobae (Spanish)

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