Water Crisis in Ramallah and Al-Bireh Attributed to Occupation’s Actions

RAMALLAH: In a recent meeting with the Water Authority, Dr. Laila Ghanem, the Governor of Ramallah and Al-Bireh, highlighted concerns over the occupation's reduction of water supplies, which she claims is aimed at depriving Palestinian citizens of their essential water needs. Dr. Ghanem hosted a delegation from the Jerusalem Water Authority to discuss ongoing water shortages that exacerbate during the summer months. According to Maan News Agency, the delegation was led by Abdul Khaliq Al-Karmi, the Director General of the Jerusalem Water Authority, who conveyed the challenges posed by the occupation's control over water distribution. Al-Karmi explained that the reduction in water supplied during the summer months leads to significant distribution challenges, exacerbated by varying network conditions and the shutdown of pumping stations due to insufficient pressure. Al-Karmi highlighted that while temporary measures have been implemented to alleviate the crisis, these efforts are insufficient to fully addres s the recurring shortages. He emphasized the urgent need for sustainable solutions to ensure equitable water distribution. Dr. Ghanem underscored the critical nature of water access, describing it as a fundamental right for all Palestinians. She attributed the water shortages to the occupation's deliberate actions, framing them as part of a broader pattern of aggression. Dr. Ghanem called for unity among Palestinian institutions and urged all relevant parties to collaborate on securing additional water supplies, particularly for areas most affected by the crisis. She also advocated for citizens to express their grievances and demand resolutions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining focus on the occupation's role in the ongoing water crisis. Dr. Ghanem called for a collective effort to mitigate the impact of the shortages, stressing the need for immediate and practical interventions. In response, Al-Karmi expressed gratitude for the governor's involvement and support. He reiterated the Water Authority' s commitment to maximizing its resources and working with partners to enhance water delivery to affected areas. Al-Karmi affirmed the notion that access to water is a universal right and stressed the importance of sustained efforts to secure adequate supplies for all communities under the Authority's jurisdiction.