The city of Taiz in Yemen, with a population of about three million, is facing a severe water crisis and waste accumulation due to ongoing conflicts and fuel shortages. This crisis has intensified especially since the outbreak of fighting between the Yemeni government and the Houthi group in September.
Water and Fuel Shortages
Families in Taiz have resorted to water rationing due to the water shortage. As a result of disrupted supply routes, the provision of water, food, and fuel has been severely affected. Given the lack of access to fuel, water pumps and hospitals are facing serious challenges, leading to waste piling up in the streets of the city.
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According to reports, currently, about half of the 250,000 displaced people in Yemen due to escalating conflicts are living in Taiz province. The waste situation in this city is so dire that residents, such as Abdul Bari Al-Qadi, have expressed concern, stating: "The waste situation is very bad, and its accumulation is dangerous."
Concerns Over Disease Outbreaks
Health officials in Taiz have warned that the accumulation of waste could lead to the outbreak of diseases, including dengue fever and cholera. According to the World Health Organization, cholera cases have tripled since early September. Additionally, hospitals in this area are facing shortages of medicine and fuel, with many only having enough fuel for four days.
Moreover, due to the conflicts, many families are unable to access healthcare services. This situation is particularly dangerous for children, as they cannot meet their basic needs. Rishana Hanifa, the country director for Save the Children in Yemen, has stated that "we see children in a very dangerous situation who are unable to meet their basic needs."
Relief organizations are seeking other water sources, and the cost of water provision has significantly increased. For example, the cost of supplying water for each water truck has risen from 23,000 Yemeni rials ($14.80) to 70,000 rials ($45). With this situation, many families are unable to easily meet their needs.
Ultimately, this water and health crisis has severely impacted living conditions in Taiz province and may have repercussions that extend beyond this province. Health officials and relief organizations emphasize the urgent need for access to water resources and healthcare services.
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