This week in Mauritius, water reserves continue to face critical shortages, with levels still well below average despite recent rainfall. Meanwhile, the government is intensifying its environmental conservation efforts. This includes the removal of unauthorized buildings on Benitiers Island and initiating a project to replenish the sea cucumber population. On the safety front, while there has been a small decline in deadly accidents, the risk to pedestrians and the elderly is still a significant issue.
The Ministry of Housing and Lands calls for demolition of unauthorized structures on Benitiers Island
Minister Shakeel Mohamed unexpectedly visited the Benitiers Island on Wednesday, March 5, to survey illegal buildings and squatters. He ordered the removal of 171 illegal structures, giving residents a week to vacate. This measure seeks to protect the island's delicate ecosystem and eliminate unlawful occupation of this renowned natural site.
The Western Boaters Association has expressed interest in contributing to the island's sustainable development but criticized the lack of initial consultation. They advocate for a partnership with authorities to manage the transition smoothly and maintain local economic stability.
Furthermore, the island's public health concerns, including rodent infestations and poor housing, were addressed. Housing and Tourism ministers announced collaborative efforts to tackle these issues and enhance living conditions on Benitiers Island.
Slight drop in fatal accidents, yet risks for pedestrians and seniors persist
Mauritius has recorded an 8.7% decrease in fatal accidents during January and February of 2025, with 21 deaths compared to 24 in the same period in 2024. However, the risk remains high for specific groups. The number of pedestrian fatalities has increased by 33%, resulting in four deaths, while fatalities among those aged 60 and over have doubled, also to four.
Moreover, the death rate for vehicle passengers has surged by 200%, with six deaths this year compared to two last year. Most of these accidents occur between 6 AM and 10 AM, a peak risk period. Despite the overall decline in fatalities, the continuing vulnerability of pedestrians and seniors highlights the urgent need for enhanced road safety measures.
Persistent low water levels in Mauritius despite recent rains
As of March 3, water reserves in Mauritius remain critically low, with reservoirs filled to just 37.44% of their capacity, a sharp decline from 91.4% recorded at the same time last year. This marks a significant 54% decrease.
Among the reservoirs, only Mare Longue and La Nicolière hold levels above 50%, at 51.3% and 52.9%, respectively. However, the larger Mare aux Vacoas, the island's most significant reservoir, is only at 40.7%, similar to the Midlands Dam. Piton du Milieu is slightly better at 44.1%, while Bagatelle Dam is at 39.8%. The situation at La Ferme is particularly dire, with levels not surpassing 28.6%.
Despite the recent rains brought by Cyclone Garance, the overall water scarcity persists, with an average fill rate across the island's seven main reservoirs at just 40.6%.
Mauritius relaunches sea cucumber farming
The Mauritian government, in partnership with the University of Sunshine Coast in Australia, has inaugurated an aquaculture initiative aimed at replenishing sea cucumber populations in its lagoons. With a budget of Rs 12.1 million, the project plans to introduce hatchery-produced seeds by 2026 to aid recovery.
Sea cucumbers, vital to marine ecosystems, have suffered from significant declines primarily due to overfishing and habitat degradation. Since 2010, their harvest has been tightly controlled under stringent regulations, with a moratorium that has recently been extended to 2029.
Both Mauritius and the Seychelles are actively managing the sea cucumber populations within their Joint Management Area (JMA), including issuing calls for proposals to ensure sustainable stock management.
