Bolivian municipalities face water shortages and rising costs

Municipalities in Bolivia are facing severe logistical and economic challenges due to drought and the removal of diesel subsidies. In the department of Chuquisaca, at least 13 of the 27 rural municipalities are experiencing potable water shortages as natural sources dry up. Local authorities are forced to transport water using trucks and small vehicles, a process made increasingly expensive by high diesel costs and fuel scarcity. Some towns have resorted to rationing water every other day.

In the Cochabamba metropolitan area, mayors are requesting increased funding from the national government to offset the impact of the recent elimination of diesel subsidies. Following Supreme Decree 5716, which set the price of diesel at Bs 17.95 per liter, local administrations report that the rising cost of fuel is hindering the execution of public works, such as paving projects, and straining municipal budgets. Local leaders have warned that these economic shifts are directly affecting the general population's ability to sustain daily activities.