The Water Tank Grant Scheme, a subsidy program by the Development Bank of Mauritius (DBM), is experiencing significant disruptions amid a severe drought and declining water reserves in Mauritius. With water reserves dwindling alarmingly as November approaches, the temporary suspension of orders by major manufacturers Resiglas, Nabridas, and Duraco Ltd has crippled the official supply chain. This has left households facing refusals of coupons or indefinite delays, pushing many to turn to other registered suppliers with DBM.
One resident, who had placed an order with Surfrider on October 23, 2026, reported being initially promised delivery within 10 days, only to be met with prolonged radio silence, including unanswered calls and messages. After multiple follow-ups, the company informed him that delivery would not occur until January 2027, a delay of over two months without a specific date. When questioned about the delay, a Surfrider representative attributed it to being "overloaded with calls, messages," curtly suggesting the client seek alternative companies if he was in a hurry.
A Surfrider Co Ltd employee confirmed to ION News that orders from this new batch would be delivered starting January 2027. With the Central Water Authority (CWA) imposing stricter restrictions and warning that reserves could hit rock bottom by the end of the year, a pressing question arises: how are Mauritian families expected to store water and survive the critical months of November and December if promised equipment won't arrive until next year?
This testimony, given under anonymity, highlights the predicament faced by thousands of households. Between major industrial players suspending orders and secondary suppliers accumulating abusive delays and lacking customer consideration, the DBM's coupon system is showing its structural limitations in the face of a genuine social emergency. Many citizens are being forced to seek alternative solutions as the situation grows more desperate.
The Water Tank Grant Scheme was designed to help households store water, especially during times of scarcity. However, with delays mounting and suppliers struggling to keep up with demand, the scheme's effectiveness is being called into question. As the drought continues to grip the island, residents are growing increasingly frustrated with the lack of progress.
The Mauritian government has been urged to intervene and address the issues plaguing the Water Tank Grant Scheme. With water reserves at critically low levels, there is a pressing need for a functional and efficient system to support households. The DBM and relevant authorities must work together to find a solution to this crisis and ensure that families have access to the resources they need.
As the situation continues to unfold, residents of Mauritius are advised to remain vigilant and explore alternative options for water storage. The government and relevant stakeholders must prioritize finding a resolution to this issue to mitigate the impact of the drought on households and communities across the island.
Key points
- Water tank deliveries under the DBM's Water Tank Grant Scheme have been delayed until January 2027 for some approved suppliers in Mauritius.
- The delays have left many households struggling to store water amid a severe drought and declining water reserves.
- The Mauritian government has been urged to intervene and address the issues plaguing the Water Tank Grant Scheme.
