An emergency water quality survey conducted by the United Nations and various aid agencies has revealed alarming levels of contamination in Gaza’s water supply, according to a report by Al Jazeera.
Key Findings
- Survey Period: December 1-23, 2024
- Samples Tested: 306 samples collected across Gaza (excluding North Gaza).
Chlorine Deficiency:
- 79% of samples lacked adequate chlorine levels necessary to ensure safe drinking water.
Microbiological Contamination:
- 19% of samples showed contamination with faecal coliforms, indicating potential exposure to harmful pathogens.
Implications
- Health Risks:
- Exposure to faecal coliforms increases the risk of waterborne diseases, including diarrhea, cholera, and other gastrointestinal infections.
- Inadequate chlorination exacerbates the vulnerability of residents to microbial contamination.
- Humanitarian Crisis:
- The findings underline the dire water and sanitation crisis in Gaza, further compounding the challenges posed by limited infrastructure, ongoing conflict, and resource shortages.
Background
Gaza has long faced chronic water scarcity and contamination issues due to:
- Over-reliance on aquifers, which are heavily depleted and contaminated by seawater intrusion.
- Inadequate water treatment facilities, worsened by years of blockade and conflict.
- Insufficient international aid and infrastructure development to address the crisis comprehensively.
Call to Action
The report underscores the urgent need for:
- Immediate measures to improve water treatment and chlorination processes.
- Enhanced international support to address the water and sanitation crisis in Gaza.
- Long-term solutions to rebuild and modernize Gaza’s water infrastructure.
Without immediate intervention, the health and well-being of Gaza’s population, especially children and vulnerable groups, remain at significant risk.
