How Gaza's blockade impacts on water and sanitation

Gaza's blockade causes delays in essential humanitarian work. Unrepaired water and sanitation pipelines are gradually becoming decrepit. Strategic sewage treatment projects are being delayed or cancelled for lack of equipment and supplies, causing deterioration of Gaza's main aquifer. Only 5 -10 per cent of the aquifer now meets drinking water quality standards. Fifty to eighty million litres of untreated or partially treated sewage is released into the Mediterranean Sea every day, drifting north into Israeli waters. The public health implications are significant. Due to an intermittent water supply, Gaza residents use an average of 91 litres of water per day (compared to 280 litres used by Israeli residents for domestic consumption). The World Health Organization (WHO) says that 100-150 litres of water are required per capita per day to make sure all health needs are met. Lack of adequate quantities of water also places public health at risk and hygiene is sometimes compromised. [authors abstract]