Dajabón families face water scarcity as taps run dry

In Dajabón, a border municipality in the Dominican Republic, the simple act of turning on a faucet has become a daily struggle for countless families. The persistent scarcity of potable water has disrupted routines, compelling residents to stockpile the precious liquid, purchase it from external sources, or endure sleepless nights in anticipation of a supply that often falls short.

Residents of over a dozen neighborhoods describe a dire situation, particularly in the Militar neighborhood, where scheduled water deliveries have been missed for days. When water does arrive, the pressure is frequently so low that it only reaches a few homes, leaving others parched. "Many times it only reaches three houses, while the rest of us families are left without water," lamented María Gómez, a resident of the La Fe neighborhood, urging authorities to explain the prolonged irregularities.

The desperation intensifies during early morning hours when water is sometimes supplied. Residents report having to stay awake, listening for the sound of pipes, to fill buckets and tanks, often in vain. "We have to stay up all night waiting for it to arrive and often we stay awake for nothing," said Maribel Morel, another affected resident.

Behind every dry tap are families unable to cook, wash clothes, clean their homes, or perform basic hygiene tasks like bathing or using toilets. This situation has persisted for months, a stark contrast to previous periods of more regular supply. The lack of clear information from authorities about the cause, whether it be breakdowns, low pressure, distribution system issues, or other problems, only amplifies the uncertainty and frustration.

The affected communities, including those in the Militar neighborhood, have appealed to the National Institute of Potable Water and Sewerage (Inapa) to investigate the matter, publicly disclose the reasons for the shortage, and implement measures to normalize the service. They also request a reliable distribution schedule and the deployment of water tank trucks to the most affected areas while the problem is being resolved. "Water is not a luxury; it is a necessity for cooking, cleaning, bathing, and living with dignity," the community members stated, hoping their plea is heard amidst the dry pipes and unfulfilled promises.