Abruzzo and Basilicata rank among Italy's worst regions for water loss, study shows

A study by the CGIA research office in Mestre examined Italy's drinking‑water distribution networks for 2022. It found that Abruzzo lost 62.5% of the water it supplied – about 340 liters per person each day – making it the second‑worst region after Basilicata, which lost 65.5% (around 341 liters per capita). The national average loss was 42.4%, costing roughly €9.8 billion annually.

Economic impact was highlighted for the two regions: the study estimated losses of €449 million per year in Abruzzo and €189 million in Basilicata. The report linked the high loss rates to ageing infrastructure, pipe ruptures, meter‑reading errors and illegal connections. Regional officials, including CISL Basilicata secretary Vincenzo Cavallo, warned that the problem is not a seasonal emergency and called for a coordinated maintenance plan and accelerated investment in network renewal.

The analysis also identified the most affected municipalities, with Chieti (70.4% loss) and Potenza (71% loss) leading among provincial capitals, while Teramo showed a comparatively better performance at 27.9% loss.