Potable Water under Pressure: Effects of the Syrian Crisis and Recent Drought on Northwest Syria

Abstract

The study investigates the impact of the Syrian crisis and the recent drought on the potable water situation in Northwest Syria, comparing various aspects of water availability and quality before and after 2011. 380 key-informants were surveyed, including water-well owners, well-digging companies, water-trucking suppliers, agricultural pharmacies, and service offices within local councils. The surveys covered all nine districts in northwestern Syria across the Aleppo and the Idleb governorates. The survey findings reveal significant shifts in water sources, an almost halving in water availability and per capita consumption, and a notable decrease in water quality. Coping mechanisms include random well drilling and reduced hygiene practices. Water pumping stations face challenges with functionality, and there is a shift towards clean energy sources, particularly solar energy. Challenges identified by the survey respondents include drought, fuel costs, and damaged water networks. The study highlights the urgency of addressing the potable water crisis in Northwest Syria and suggests specific interventions to enhance water sustainability and governance.