THE Island Garden City of Samal (Igacos), through its City Public Order and Safety Office (CPOSO), gears up for the looming drought due to El Niño by formulating a contingency plan.
It recently conducted a workshop on contingency plan formulation at its Operation Center in Penaplata, Samal District in anticipation of the drought that is expected to highly impact on the availability of sustainable water supply in the Island.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) has issued a severe drought warning for the country.
Recent conditions and model forecasts indicate that El Niño will form in the coming season - June, July, and August, with an 80 percent chance and will last until the first quarter of 2024.
Report from Samal Information Office said that the Samal Island contingency plan on drought was crafted “based on the presumable worst-case scenario in every cluster presented that could occur on the island, recognizing the need for proactive action in the face of climate change and increasing water scarcity.”
The plan aims to protect water service providers, address the pressing challenges posed by drought conditions, and ensure a long-term water supply for the entire island.
The plan adopts strategies incorporating innovative measures and collaborative approach to reduce the impact of drought and to secure water supplies for communities and industries alike.
Included in the strategies and measures are water conservation and efficiency, diversification of water sources, improved infrastructure and storage capacity, public awareness and education, emergency response, and drought management.
Samal Information Office report added that the plan also integrates the latest advanced technologies, and best practices to ensure effective water management during the dry spell.(PR)