Morocco’s Water Highway Project

Morocco is investing heavily in a project to redirect northern rivers to combat water scarcity in its southern cities. This initiative, known as the “water highway,” aims to ensure a steady supply of drinking water to major urban areas like Rabat and Casablanca. However, experts raise concerns about the sustainability of this project amid ongoing climate change.

Project Overview

The Moroccan government has allocated $728 million to construct the water highway. This project diverts the Sebou River’s flow to support the water needs of densely populated regions. A diversion dam in Kenitra retains water before it flows into the ocean. The water is treated and transported through a 67-kilometre underground canal to urban centres. By early March 2025, the project had provided over 700 million cubic metres of drinking water.

Water Scarcity in Morocco

Morocco faces severe disparities in rainfall. Approximately 53% of the country’s rainfall occurs in just 7% of its territory, primarily in the northern regions. The southern areas, including Marrakesh, experience semi-arid conditions. This uneven distribution has led to water stress, particularly brought into light by the recent six-year drought. Annual water supply has plummeted from 18 billion cubic metres in the 1980s to just 5 billion .

Impact of Climate Change

Climate change poses threat to Morocco’s water resources. Rising temperatures have increased evaporation rates, exacerbating drought conditions. Experts predict that northern water basins will face greater impacts from climate change over the next 60 years. This could lead to a reduction in the water surpluses that the water highway relies upon.

Future Projections

Current projections indicate that what is deemed surplus water may not exist in the future. The ongoing drought, described as the longest in Morocco’s history, has resulted in rainfall levels 75% below historical averages. This situation raises questions about the long-term viability of the water highway project.

Need for Sustainable Solutions

While the water highway is seen as a temporary solution, experts advocate for more sustainable practices. High demand for irrigation in the agricultural sector, which employs nearly a third of the workforce, necessitates the adoption of water-efficient techniques. Additionally, investment in desalination plants is recommended to ensure a reliable water supply for urban populations.

Conclusion on Water Management

The Moroccan government must balance immediate water needs with long-term sustainability. As climate challenges intensify, proactive measures will be essential to secure water resources for future generations.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the impact of climate change on water resources in North Africa.
2. What are the implications of the “water highway” project for regional water security in Morocco? Discuss.
3. Estimate the effectiveness of desalination as a solution to water scarcity in arid regions.
4. Point out the key challenges faced by Morocco in managing its water resources amid climate change.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the impact of climate change on water resources in North Africa.

1. Climate change exacerbates drought conditions, reducing overall water availability.
2. Rising temperatures increase evaporation rates, leading to greater water loss.
3. Regional rainfall patterns are becoming more erratic, with some areas experiencing extreme deficits.
4. Long-term projections indicate reductions in water surpluses, particularly in northern basins.
5. Increased competition for limited water resources due to agricultural demands and population growth.

2. What are the implications of the “water highway” project for regional water security in Morocco? Discuss.

1. The project aims to alleviate immediate water shortages in densely populated areas like Rabat and Casablanca.
2. It redirects water from northern rivers, which may not be sustainable long-term due to climate change.
3. Success in the short term may mask the need for broader water management strategies.
4. Potential for increased regional disparities in water access between northern and southern Morocco.
5. Could lead to conflicts over water rights and resource allocation among different regions.

3. Estimate the effectiveness of desalination as a solution to water scarcity in arid regions.

1. Desalination provides a reliable source of drinking water, particularly in coastal areas.
2. It can supplement existing water supplies, reducing dependence on freshwater sources.
3. High energy costs and environmental impacts are challenges to widespread adoption.
4. Technological advancements are improving efficiency and reducing costs over time.
5. Desalination should be part of a broader strategy that includes water conservation and efficient irrigation practices.

4. Point out the key challenges faced by Morocco in managing its water resources amid climate change.

1. Severe water stress due to prolonged drought and declining annual water supply.
2. Uneven distribution of rainfall leading to regional disparities in water availability.
3. Increased evaporation rates due to rising temperatures, exacerbating water scarcity.
4. High demand for irrigation in agriculture, which employs portion of the workforce.
5. Need for investment in sustainable practices, including water-efficient technologies and infrastructure.