Ecuador’s drought forces further power cuts

Ecuador’s government announced a nine-hour electricity cut on Sunday for 12 provinces due to drought-induced reductions in hydroelectric water levels. The blackout, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm local time, adds to the eight-hour nightly power cuts planned from Monday to Thursday.

The country is facing its worst drought in 61 years, worsened by inadequate dam maintenance and insufficient new energy contracts. The additional suspension aims to protect water resources. This decision followed a meeting of the Emergency Operations Committee on Saturday.

Environment Minister Ines Manzano stated that 19 provinces are struggling with water shortages, fires, and food security issues. The military has also been deployed to support and protect the Mazar hydroelectric plant, crucial for its storage capacity.

Attribution: Reuters

Subediting: M. S. Salama