DAILY AVG WATER USE HITS 130 GALLONS IN BAHRAIN

Bahrain’s water reserves and individual water usage rates have increased during the past decade, as more water plants were constructed in different parts of the island, it has recently emerged.

According to statistics, water consumption rates have been estimated to be 130 imperial gallons (591.5 litres) per day by the end of 2014.

That is about 100 gallons more than the average usage of individuals in the United Kingdom, according to Waterwise, a non-governmental water efficiency authority in the UK.

However, the daily domestic consumption of individuals in Bahrain has been estimated to be around 75 imperial gallons, about 10 gallons less, in comparison with the United States.

This information was recently revealed by Energy Minister Dr. Abdulhussain Mirza, in his reply to MP Abdulhameed Al Najjar’s queries on the Kingdom’s backup supply of water, the status of water networks and the average individual water consumption rates in Bahrain.

The minister confirmed in his answer that “Electricity and Water Authority (EWA) is responsible for providing subscribers with drinking water for domestic and general consumption, as per the GCC and international specifications.”

He stated, “By the end of 2016, Bahrain’s water reserves are estimated to be around 617 million gallons, which is sufficient for three days of consumption.”

On the other hand, the minister also confirmed Bahrain’s water reserves would last for six days in emergency cases by rationalising daily consumption to half.

Dr. Mirza explained the reserves increased simultaneously with the establishment of more water plants in the last 10 years.

According to the latest statistics, Bahrain’s production is shooting up from 105m gallons/day in 2005 to 193m gallons/day by the end of 2016.

“This comes as several major projects were completed, such as the Hidd Power and Water Generating Plant, Hamad Town/Al Areen and other plants established between 2005 and 2014, in addition to the ongoing development projects at Al Dur Power and Water Station, which is expected to complete by the end of 2016,” the minister confirmed.

This information was mentioned in a 7-page detailed report that will be discussed before MPs in the upcoming weekly meeting of the Parliament House on Tuesday.