Mexico's Water Crisis: Deep Well Dilemma & Quality Concern

As Mexico's water crisis worsens amid ongoing droughts, concerns about the nation's groundwater quality are escalating. With over 60% of Mexico City's water sourced from an over-exploited aquifer and 28% from the aging Cutzamala water system, experts warn of impending depletion within four decades if urgent actions are not taken.

According to a report by Infobae, the National Water Commission (CONAGUA) has resorted to digging increasingly deep wells, some exceeding 600 meters, to meet water demands. However, this strategy carries notable hazards, including the potential for contamination from various sources such as heavy metals, fluoride, or pollutants from industrial processes. Moreover, deeper drilling may intersect with geological formations containing saline water or other detrimental substances, exacerbating concerns about water purity and safety.

CONAGUA's well and groundwater analysis program utilizes a color-coding system to assess water quality. Their latest study revealed that in 2022 only 42.5% of groundwater nationwide met standards for human consumption, while 39% fell under the "red" category, indicating the presence of harmful substances like fluoride, coliform bacteria, nitrates, or heavy metals.

Efforts are underway to bolster water flow from the Cutzamala system, a crucial source built decades ago. Yet, management challenges persist due to fragmented decision-making among federal, state, and municipal authorities. The absence of an autonomous agency overseeing the entire Valley of Mexico exacerbates these issues.

In response to the crisis, researchers from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) proposed a comprehensive water security plan. Emphasizing intensive water capture, increased use of treated residual waters in agriculture, and aquifer replenishment through surface water injection, the plan aims to mitigate water scarcity.

UNAM's study highlights inefficiencies in water usage, with only 75% of irrigated lands utilizing treated water and minimal water reuse in agriculture. By incentivizing the use of residual waters in agriculture, potable water reserves could be preserved for urban consumption.

However, implementing UNAM's plan requires substantial investment, estimated at US$5.8 billion.  Funds would be allocated for essential maintenance on the aging Cutzamala system and repairing water pipes to reduce leakages, which currently account for a staggering 40% of water loss.

Amid mounting concerns, media reports speculate an impending "Day Zero," projected for June 26, 2024, when the Cutzamala system may fail to meet Mexico City's water demands. Urgent action and coordinated efforts are imperative to avert this crisis and ensure sustainable water management for Mexico's future.