Peruvians to go thirsty

May 3, 2004

The Peruvian state water company Sedapal just announced it will close off the water to more than seven million residents of the country's capital every day from 5 p.m. to 5 a.m. But there will be water for some – undoubtedly the residents of rich neighborhoods. Water will also be available for corporate use in industry and agriculture.

The president of Sedapal said the problem is that rainfall was low during the rainy season which just ended. At the same time, he admitted the pipes are leaking. And why would pipes be leaking in the state water system? Because the funds weren't used to plug up the holes and do the necessary maintenance!

Instead the poorer residents of the capital are to do without water, just at the moment when working people would get home and need it.

If there truly is a water shortage, then let the more than 400 U.S. companies operating there bring in water if they need it. The people of Lima should have first call on what's available.