Water supply crisis: A precarious year-end ahead
Mauritius is bracing for a potential water crisis as 2024 draws to a close. The Mare aux Vacoas reservoir, a critical water source, stands at a worrying 38% capacity as of August. With an unusually dry winter season, some regions are already grappling with water restrictions. The government is scrambling to implement emergency measures to stave off widespread water cuts, which could impact around 200,000 households in the coming months.
Fuel prices set for a dip by late September
Relief is on the horizon for Mauritian motorists, with a long-awaited reduction in fuel prices expected by the end of September. Currently, petrol is priced at Rs 74.10 per litre, while diesel sits at Rs 54.55. A sharp drop in international oil prices, now hovering around USD 85 per barrel, is fueling expectations of a price cut. The authorities are preparing to adjust local rates, bringing some much-needed respite to drivers after a season of price hikes and public outcry.
Mauritius wins its first Paralympic medal
Yovanni Philippe has etched his name into history by clinching Mauritius's first-ever Paralympic medal, taking home bronze in the 400m T20. Fellow athlete Noemi Alphonse came heartbreakingly close to the podium, finishing fourth in the 800m wheelchair race, while Brandy Perrine secured eighth place. Anais Angeline, a T37 long jump specialist and world vice-champion, rounded out the team's efforts by finishing sixth.
Respiratory infections: 4,262 cases in one week
Mauritius's chilly winter is taking its toll, with a surge in respiratory infections reported between August 26 and September 1. A total of 4,262 cases have been logged across hospitals, with influenza, rhinovirus, and Covid-19 leading the charge. Health authorities are urging citizens to get vaccinated, reminding them that vaccines are readily available in health centers. Symptoms such as persistent cough, fever, and chest pain can escalate without timely intervention, potentially developing into acute bronchitis.
Drug trafficking: two Madagascans arrested with khat
In a joint operation, the Customs Anti-Narcotics Section and ADSU arrested two Madagascans for attempting to smuggle Rs 500,000 worth of khat into Mauritius. The first arrest was made at Plaisance Airport, where 440 grams of the drug were found hidden in a plastic bag. Khat, a stimulant largely unknown in Mauritius, is widely consumed in parts of Africa. Its effects, similar to caffeine, can induce feelings of euphoria, and it's quickly gaining notoriety on the island.
A father stabs his 8-year-old daughter
A devastating family incident has left the island in shock after a father stabbed his eight-year-old daughter in Flacq. The young girl is currently hospitalized and in stable condition. Her father, 47, attempted suicide immediately after the attack and is also under medical care. Police found two blood-stained knives at the scene and have launched an investigation into this tragic event.
