The decision is partly because water reservoirs are already at a very low level, according to the Department of Agriculture
Artificial irrigation, street cleaning and car washing with tap water are prohibited, and household water use is limited. Residents especially in the capital area are already living with severely reduced water supply.
“Years of drought and poor inflow of water have affected the country’s water reserve and created an unprecedented situation,” writes the ministry.
Trade unions and interest organizations warn that this year’s agricultural harvests are in the danger zone, which could lead to disaster for the country’s already battered economy.