Water crisis in Beit Lahiya: struggling to access clean water after conflict

Beit Lahiya is facing water crisis following the collapse of its water system due.

Beit Lahiya, a city in Gaza, is facing a severe water crisis following the collapse of its water system due to extensive damage from the ongoing conflict. Residents who returned to their homes after the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas are now grappling with a dire water shortage, impacting their daily lives and basic needs.

The Gaza conflict has deeply affected the city’s infrastructure, with the destruction of 15 major wells, which were the main source of water for Beit Lahiya. According to the city's mayor, the damage has led to a complete collapse of the water system, leaving residents without access to fresh water—a basic human right that many in Beit Lahiya have been stripped of.

“We found massive destruction in the city as the occupation intentionally destroyed all necessities of life in every sense of the word. We also found that in the water sector... We declared the collapse of the water system in Beit Lahiya area. We found 15 main wells destroyed inside the city. People used to rely on these wells a lot and now, there is a big water crisis in Beit Lahiya,” said Beit Lahiya Mayor Alaa Al-Attar.

Despite efforts to establish new wells to mitigate the crisis, the ongoing occupation prevents the entry of necessary drillers, machinery, and other equipment needed to operate these wells.

Palestinian farmer Bassel Rajab, expressed frustration about the lack of basic water access, saying, “We at least want to wash our dishes and use the bathroom. We don’t have any... we don’t even receive any water from outside. We are suffering a lot due to the issue of water. I personally, on some days, I go to Gaza to wash, then I return here. There is drought here, there is no water.”

In order to provide for themselves, people either walk long distances or collect water from the municipality when it arrives every two to three days. They fill whatever containers they can, knowing it may not be enough but carrying the water back home in desperation. 

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Palestinian Palestine Gaza Middle East News Politics