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Why Mexico City is Dying
In the heart of North America’s most populous city, a crisis is unfolding that threatens the very essence of life: water. With a population of over 21 million, Mexico City now finds itself grappling with a severe water shortage, a situation exacerbated by a confluence of environmental, infrastructural, and climatic challenges.
The Water Supply Dilemma
Mexico City’s unique geography and historical development have long complicated its water supply. Sitting atop a high-altitude former lake bed, the city relies heavily on its underground aquifers for about 60% of its water. However, decades of over-extraction have led to alarming levels of subsidence, with the ground sinking at a rate of approximately 20 inches per year.
The remaining 40% of the city’s water comes from the Cutzamala System — an intricate network of canals, dams, and reservoirs. Yet, these reservoirs are now at historic lows, operating at just 38% capacity. This has forced local authorities to impose stringent water rations and rely on water truck deliveries, which are often insufficient to meet the demands of the city’s burgeoning population.
