Reservoir History in Mauritius | ||
The history of reservoirs in Mauritius is intertwined with the island's development and its evolving water management practices. Over the years, reservoirs have played a pivotal role in addressing the water needs of the country. The BeginningsThe construction of Mare aux Vacoas in 1885 marked the beginning of the island's reservoir system. This reservoir primarily focused on providing a domestic water supply, ensuring that the population had access to clean drinking water. Early Irrigation-Focused ReservoirsLa Ferme, established in 1914, was one of the early reservoirs initially dedicated to irrigation. It supported agriculture by providing water for crop cultivation, contributing to food security. HydropowerThe mid-20th century saw the introduction of reservoirs with hydro-power generation capabilities, such as Tamarind Falls. These reservoirs harnessed the power of flowing water to produce clean and renewable energy. Multi-Purpose ReservoirsReservoirs like Mare Longue, La Nicoliere, and Midlands Dam, constructed in the early to mid-20th century, embraced a multi-purpose approach. They served domestic, irrigation, and industrial needs, demonstrating the island's commitment to versatility in water resource allocation. Modern Reservoirs and Domestic Water SupplyThe more recent reservoirs, such as Bagatelle Dam, which was completed in 2017, have primarily focused on domestic water supply. These reservoirs are essential to meet the growing water demands of a modernizing society.
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 source: Statistics Mauritius | Major Reservoirs - Year of Construction and Uses
Major Lakes
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source: Statistics Mauritius |
