VICTORIA, Seychelles — The Public Utilities Corporation (PUC) is closely monitoring the worsening water situation across Mahé as limited rainfall continues to strain water resources. The La Gogue Dam, the country’s primary reservoir, is currently operating at just 61 percent capacity and continues to deplete. In comparison, the Rochon Dam remains relatively high at 90 percent, but concerns persist as overall conditions this year are drier than the same period last year.
As a result, certain areas in northern Mahé are already experiencing water restrictions, with PUC working to manage growing demand through increased reliance on desalinated water. The desalination plants at Providence, Perseverance and Bel Ombre are now playing a vital role in supplementing the supply. In contrast, southern Mahé is facing a more critical situation. Diminished river flows and prolonged dry spells have led to daily water cuts, implemented between 8am and 6pm and again from 6pm to 8am. The existing desalination capacity in the south meets only 30 percent of the daily demand of 4,000 cubic metres, highlighting a significant shortfall.
To urgently address this gap, PUC is preparing to deploy two containerised desalination units at Anse à la Mouche, a site selected for its readiness and proximity to the most affected communities. Each unit will produce 1,000 cubic metres of water per day, and both are expected to be operational within six to eight weeks. These units will be housed in noise-attenuated containers to minimise disruption to surrounding residents. The effects of the dry weather extend beyond Mahé, with daily water restrictions also in place on Praslin.
