Tunis – In an indicator reflecting the depth of the environmental and water challenges facing the country, the Tunisian Water Observatory published its “Thirst Map” for August 2026.
The map confirmed the continued severe pressure on the drinking water supply system
during the peak summer consumption period, resulting in widespread disruptions
and interruptions in water distribution across numerous regions of Tunisia.
Actual disruptions in drinking water distribution
The observatory explained that it monitored and received approximately 402 reports during the month in question.
These resulted in 361 recorded interruptions and disruptions to the drinking water supply across Tunisia.
The governorate of Mahdia topped the list of governorates in terms of the number of complaints and reports, recording 41.
It was followed by the governorate of Ben Arous with 37 reports, and then the governorate of Ariana with 36.
Meanwhile, the governorates of Tunis and Sfax each recorded 33 reports.
This indicates a widespread crisis affecting both major cities and inland regions.
Popular protests and dilapidated infrastructure
The repercussions of the crisis were not limited to the provision of services;
they were accompanied by widespread social discontent.
The Observatory recorded 24 citizen protests across various regions due to the worsening water shortage.
This is in addition to recording 13 leaks in the distribution networks.
It also recorded 4 reports concerning water quality and its suitability for human consumption.
These developments are a continuation of a critical phase of the “water emergency” previously declared by the Observatory.
It also noted that the peak of summer exacerbated the water crisis and fueled public anger.
Injecting massive and urgent financial investments
In the same vein, international expert in environment and sustainable development,
Mohamed Adel Hentati, warned in statements made at the beginning of September 2026
that approximately 62% of the drinking water distribution network
belonging to the National Water Distribution Company (SONEDE) is dilapidated and extremely outdated.
Therefore, it is imperative to inject massive and urgent financial investments to modernize and upgrade it.
This acute water crisis coincides with a decline in the supply of bottled water in the markets.
This further exacerbates the suffering of citizens in securing the most basic necessities for a decent life during the summer heat waves.
