The Stream, November 1: Future Uncertain For Manila Water Supplies

The Global Rundown

Natural disasters and growing demand may jeopardize water supplies for Manila within the next five years. The controversial Dakota Access oil pipeline is nearing the Missouri River in North Dakota. Addressing future water shortages in the Colorado River Basin will require leadership from the next U.S. president, a new report says. As Iraq’s military moves to retake Mosul, humanitarian organizations are rushing to bring clean water to communities near the city. Low water levels continue to plague shipping along the Danube and Rhine rivers in Germany.

“They’re right there. They have breached our sacred ground. There is no time for waiting any more. It is almost complete. All they need to do is go under that river.” –Cheryl Angel, a member of the Sicangu Lakota tribe, on the fast-moving construction of the Dakota Access oil pipeline in North Dakota. The project is now nearing the Missouri River. (Guardian)

By The Numbers

40 percent Maximum cargo capacity loaded onto some ships sailing the Danube and Rhine rivers in Germany due to low water levels that have persisted over the past two months. Reuters

1,500 families Number living in Al Houd, Iraq, a town near Mosul that was retaken last week by government forces as part of their effort to rid the region of militants. Humanitarian missions followed, delivering water and hygiene kits in order to stem illnesses from polluted water. UN Children’s Fund

Science, Studies, And Reports

Leadership from the next U.S. president will be crucial for addressing water shortages that are set to occur in the Colorado River Basin, according to a study by researchers at the University of Colorado. Potential areas of focus for the next administration include water sharing agreements with Mexico, and ensuring states have plans in place to respond to possible water cuts. Associated Press

On The Radar

Growing demand, climate change, and natural disasters all threaten the future viability of water supply systems in Manila, according to the president and chief executive of Maynilad Water Services, Inc., the private water utility that serves the capital city’s West Zone. There may not be enough water in the city’s current reservoir systems to meet demand by 2020, he said, and the dams are also at risk from earthquakes. Philippine Daily Inquirer