As Cundinamarca faces a looming water crisis, the Autonomous Regional Corporation (CAR) is urging residents and businesses to practice responsible water consumption, especially during the festive season. CAR’s director, Alfred Ballesteros, emphasized the importance of maintaining efficient water use habits, even while on vacation, as the region enters a dry spell expected to last until early 2025. He highlighted that the obligation to conserve water extends beyond those who directly pay water bills, stressing that everyone must contribute to safeguarding this vital resource. The CAR’s initiative calls on all sectors, including agriculture and services, to adopt enduring water practices to alleviate pressure on local water supplies and ensure availability for all.
Time.news Interview with Alfred Ballesteros on Cundinamarca’s Water Crisis
Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Ballesteros. As the director of the Autonomous Regional Corporation (CAR), you are at the forefront of addressing the meaningful water crisis facing Cundinamarca. can you explain the situation we are currently facing and why it’s critical for residents and businesses to practice responsible water consumption?
Ballesteros: Thank you for having me. Cundinamarca is in a precarious position due to a prolonged dry spell that is expected to last until early 2025. Although we recently experienced some rains,they were not sufficient to replenish our water reserves considerably. The current crisis stems from about six months of severe drought, which has severely affected our reservoirs. Therefore, it’s imperative that all residents and businesses adopt responsible water consumption habits, particularly during the festive season when usage tends to spike.
Editor: That sounds alarming.You mentioned that the responsibility for water conservation should extend beyond just those who pay water bills. Can you elaborate on that?
Ballesteros: Absolutely. Water conservation is a communal obligation. Everyone, from homeowners to businesses in agriculture and services, must contribute to safeguarding this vital resource. This means that whether you are directly paying for water or not, participating in enduring practices is essential. Simple actions, such as fixing leaks, using water-efficient appliances, and being mindful of usage, can collectively make a significant impact.
Editor: The festive season is often associated with increased consumption. What practical advice can you offer to residents to help mitigate the pressures on local water supplies during this time?
Ballesteros: There are several practical steps that residents can take. First, they should be conscious of their water usage during holiday preparations, especially during cooking and cleaning. Second, limiting outdoor water use, such as for landscaping, can greatly reduce demand. additionally, it’s crucial to educate family members about the importance of conserving water even during celebrations.Perhaps setting specific days for water-intensive activities can help in managing overall consumption.
Editor: It must be challenging to raise awareness about water conservation when it isn’t always top of mind, particularly during festive times. What initiatives is CAR implementing to encourage responsible water consumption?
Ballesteros: CAR is actively promoting educational campaigns that emphasize the importance of water conservation. We’re working with different sectors to establish long-term practices that make water management part of everyday life. This includes partnerships with local businesses and farms to implement water-efficient technologies and practices. Moreover, we encourage community discussions to foster a culture of sustainability.
Editor: Looking forward, how do you foresee the water situation evolving in Cundinamarca, especially if current trends continue?
Ballesteros: If we don’t adapt our consumption habits now, we could face an even more severe crisis. Our projections indicate that if dry conditions persist, we’ll see heightened competition for water resources among all sectors, including agriculture and urban areas. therefore,the need for collaboration among communities,businesses,and government entities is vital to develop sustainable solutions and ensure water availability for everyone.
Editor: Thank you, Mr. Ballesteros, for sharing your insights. The situation indeed requires urgent action from all sectors of society. Let’s hope that through collective efforts, we can weather this crisis effectively.
Ballesteros: Thank you for the possibility to discuss this crucial issue.together, we can make a difference in conserving our precious water resources.
This interview underscores the critical nature of water conservation in Cundinamarca and highlights actionable steps individuals and communities can take to address the looming water crisis.