The ongoing water crisis in Mauritius has given rise to new business opportunities for entrepreneurs who are adapting to meet the growing needs of the population. In the Plaine-des-Papayes region, Adarsh Gunga, 30, has seen his sales increase significantly, selling 10 to 15 water drums per day, up from just one previously. His family-owned hardware store, established by his father 30 years ago, has become a go-to destination for residents seeking water storage solutions.
The water crisis has led to frequent interruptions in water distribution, prompting households to seek ways to store water for future use. As a result, water drums, reservoirs, and buckets have become highly sought after. Adarsh Gunga's business has benefited from this trend, with customers from various regions of the island placing orders for water storage equipment. To meet the surge in demand, Gunga has had to adapt his supply chain and reinforce his stock.
Gunga's hardware store offers a range of water storage solutions, including blue plastic drums, commonly known as "drums," with capacities of 50, 100, 150, and 200 liters, priced between Rs 50 and Rs 400. He also sells 1,000-liter reservoirs, which are popular among families seeking to store larger quantities of water. The variety of products allows customers to choose equipment that suits their needs and budget.
To maintain a steady supply, Gunga has built up an additional stock and offers home delivery services, which is particularly useful for customers who cannot transport large containers themselves. The delivery charges vary depending on the distance. Gunga has also started recovering plastic drums from a local factory that previously used them for juice packaging, adapting them for domestic water storage.
Despite the significant increase in sales, Gunga has chosen to maintain his prices, refusing to take advantage of the situation by raising them. He believes that the difficulties faced by households should not be used as a pretext for price hikes. By keeping prices stable, Gunga aims to help families find a solution to the water crisis.
The water crisis has not only affected households but also inspired new business initiatives. AirWater Mauritius, for example, is promoting a technology that converts air humidity into potable water. This innovative solution aims to provide an alternative source of clean water for households struggling with the crisis.
The water crisis in Mauritius has led to a shift in consumer behavior, with households seeking ways to adapt to the interruptions in water distribution. Entrepreneurs like Adarsh Gunga are responding to this new reality, offering a range of water storage solutions that cater to different needs and budgets. As the crisis continues, it is likely that new business opportunities will emerge, driven by the need for innovative solutions to address the water shortage.
Key points
- The water crisis in Mauritius has created new business opportunities for entrepreneurs who are adapting to meet the growing needs of the population.
- Households are seeking ways to store water for future use, driving demand for water storage solutions.
- Entrepreneurs are responding to the crisis with innovative solutions, including water storage equipment and technologies that convert air humidity into potable water.
