This week in Mauritius proved eventful, marked by a spectrum of significant occurrences—from pressing environmental concerns in Curepipe and heroic sea rescues to an imminent water crisis and notable economic advancements at Emtel.
Air pollution in Curepipe: Residents protest unbearable conditions
For the past week, a dense cloud of smoke from the Mare-Chicose landfill fire, which ignited on November 6, has enveloped Curepipe and its neighboring regions, severely impacting daily life. The pervasive smoke is triggering respiratory problems and emitting an overpowering odor, compelling residents to seal their homes against the intrusion despite sweltering temperatures. The community has taken to social media to voice their outrage and demand lasting solutions to this grave public health crisis. Meanwhile, the Ministry of the Environment is diligently monitoring the situation.
Coastal concerns: PML identifies flaws and seeks moratorium on construction
Plateforme Moris Lanvironnman (PML), an environmental NGO, is raising serious concerns about the threat coastal protection projects pose to Mauritius' shores. The group has criticized environmental impact assessments as insufficient and is demanding an immediate halt to these projects. According to PML, the causes of erosion have not been accurately determined, and some existing infrastructures have been neglected in evaluations. The NGO is advocating for an independent review to safeguard against irreversible damage to the island's environment and natural heritage.
Three French tourists rescued at sea in Poste Lafayette
Three French tourists were saved from potential drowning on Monday afternoon after their kayak overturned in the lagoon at Poste Lafayette. The trio managed to swim to nearby reefs, where promptly alerted rescuers successfully retrieved them. Slightly injured, the tourists were transported to SAJ Hospital in Flacq for treatment. Also this week near Île aux Cerfs, two individuals were injured in a maritime accident. Authorities have initiated an investigation to clarify the events leading to this accident. Both individuals are now safe and have received the necessary medical attention.
Emtel achieves robust growth in the third quarter of 2024
Emtel has delivered a solid financial performance for the third quarter of 2024, with revenues soaring to Rs 2.72 billion, a 9.1% increase from the previous year. This surge is attributed to robust demand for data services, the expansion of its 5G network, and enhanced home internet solutions. EBITDA saw a significant rise of 15.8%, reaching Rs 1.27 billion. Committed to innovation and operational efficiency, Emtel keeps strengthening its market leadership in the telecommunications sector. The company also plans to distribute dividends totaling Rs 570 million to its shareholders by December.
Declining reservoir levels pose increasing concern in Mauritius
The Water Resources Unit (WRU) has reported a significant decrease in reservoir fill levels across Mauritius, with the national average currently at 52.8%, a stark drop from 68.6% recorded at the same time last year. Among the major reservoirs, Mare-aux-Vacoas is at 58%, Bagatelle at 58.7%, and Midlands Dam at 52.2%. Notably, La Ferme reservoir has reached a critically low level of only 34.4%. This decline in water reserves is raising serious concerns about potential water supply shortages in the upcoming months.
