Montreal’s water consumption has seen a minor decrease recently, following a city-wide appeal for reduced use due to infrastructure issues. Preliminary reports indicate that daily water production declined by only 1%, which is not enough to meet the city’s targets.
Current Water Consumption Statistics
Between May 30 and June 3, residents consumed approximately 1.19 billion liters of water daily. This figure is slightly down from 1.198 billion liters the previous week, a reduction of 8 million liters or 0.7% in total production.
- Current Average Consumption: 1.19 billion liters per day
- Previous Week’s Average: 1.198 billion liters per day
- Reduction: 8 million liters (0.7%)
City’s Water Conservation Goals
The city aims to save around 100 million liters of water daily this summer, which is about 7% of total production. Officials recognize that current efforts are insufficient. Hugo Bourgoin, a municipal spokesman, emphasized the need for continued public participation as summer temperatures rise.
Challenges Ahead
Historically, water consumption spikes during the summer months. On average, each Montrealer uses 306 liters daily, surpassing the Canadian average of 220 liters. Compounding the issue is an estimated $3 billion maintenance deficit in the water network, resulting in significant water loss due to leaks.
Infrastructure Concerns
A crucial factor is the discovery of advanced deterioration in a water main used since 1984. This main, located on Atwater Avenue, is among four supplying the McTavish Reservoir, which serves 1.3 million residents. The issue affects 16 of 19 boroughs, with only West Island areas spared.
Future Measures and Community Involvement
If consumption does not decrease significantly, the city may impose outdoor watering bans, with hefty fines for violations. Claude Pinard, the executive committee president, stressed the importance of proactive measures, urging collective action. Current discussions involve large companies and institutions to also play their part in reducing usage.
| Borough Impacted | Notes |
|---|---|
| Pierrefonds-Roxboro | Exempt from water restrictions |
| Lachine | Exempt from water restrictions |
| L’Île-Bizard–Sainte-Geneviève | Exempt from water restrictions |
| Other Boroughs | Impacted by infrastructure issues |
Overall, as summer progresses, more awareness campaigns will be initiated to encourage responsible water usage. Some boroughs even plan to conduct door-to-door efforts to ensure the message reaches all residents.
