IN A joint statement, the Junta Metropolitana do Algarve (JMA), the Comissão de Coordenação e Desenvolvimento Regional do Algarve (CCDR) and Águas do Algarve SA have issued water saving instructions to Algarve residents.
Although the authorities do not envisage any interruption to the public water supply, the statement reminds residents that the Algarve, along with much of the rest of the country, is still passing through a period of drought.
In the Algarve, the situation is declared to be worst in the Barlavento region (western Algarve), where the hold up in the construction of the Odelouca reservoir has caused excessive demands to be placed on the reservoirs of Bravura and Funcho.
At a recent meeting Águas do Algarve, JMA and CCDR have now issued the following temporary measures for water saving to local authorities:
• Use water sources alternative to the public supply where possible
• Reduce watering of green spaces
• Reduce or cease the washing down of public spaces
• Control leaks in the water supply system
• Improve management of swimming pools
• Control or shut down fountains
• Reduce washing of vehicles
• Eventual recourse to requisition of private water sources for public
supply
• Reduce or shut down showers and foot washers at public beaches
• Re-use water where possible
Water saving tips for all
Here are just some of the suggestions we have received at The Resident from various câmaras for saving water:
• Take showers (5 mins max) instead of baths and turn off the water
while soaping.
• Do not leave the tap running while shaving or brushing teeth.
• Use washing machines and dishwashers only when there is a full
load.
• If there are just a few cups and saucers or a handful of clothes to
be washed, wash them by hand in a bowl. Do not use a
running tap.
• Water your plants with the same water you used to wash fruit and
vegetables or for cooking. Water plants early in the morning or at
night, as water evaporates quickly in the middle of the day.
• Flush the toilet only when necessary.
• Turn off taps tightly so they do not drip. If they drip, get them fixed.
• Wash cars less often and use two or three buckets rather than a
running hose.
• Notify your local Junta de Freguesia or câmara immediately, if you
see a leaking water main or public water appliance.
