Mauritius Environment - Traffic - Tourism

03/11/2026

Softdrink production in Mauritius 🇲🇺 can raise two distinct environmental concerns: plastic pollution and the use of freshwater for industrial production. Both deserve public scrutiny, particularly on an island where reliable access to safe drinking water is essential.
However, it is important to distinguish between the environmental risks that are well established in general and any specific damage that has been demonstrated at a Coca-Cola production site in Mauritius.
1. Plastic pollution: a visible environmental problem
Plastic beverage bottles can contribute to:
Marine pollution and damage to coastal ecosystems.
Harm to fish, seabirds and other marine life.
Microplastic contamination as plastic breaks down.
Waste-management costs borne by local communities and taxpayers.
In Mauritius, where the marine environment is essential to tourism, fisheries and biodiversity, preventing plastic waste from reaching rivers, beaches and the ocean should be a priority.
The responsibility should not fall only on consumers. Beverage producers and distributors can also help by reducing unnecessary packaging, supporting effective bottle-return and recycling systems, and financing the collection of the packaging they put on the market.

2. Freshwater use: a potential risk to water security
Soft-drink production requires water as an ingredient. Additional water is generally needed for cleaning equipment, rinsing bottles, cooling and other factory operations.
This creates several questions for Mauritius:
Where does the factory obtain its water? Is it supplied by the public drinking-water network, a borehole, or another permitted source?
How much water does it consume? Total withdrawals matter, not just the water contained in the finished drinks.
Does production compete with household needs? This becomes particularly important during droughts, water restrictions and supply interruptions.
What happens to wastewater? Cleaning chemicals, sugars and other residues must be managed and treated appropriately before discharge.
Is the extraction sustainable? Excessive groundwater abstraction can potentially lower groundwater levels or contribute to saltwater intrusion in coastal aquifers.
The crucial point is that using water to manufacture a soft drink does not automatically mean that a company is damaging Mauritius's drinking-water supply. The risk depends on its water source, the volume extracted, local water availability, wastewater treatment and the effectiveness of regulatory oversight.

3. What the published figures for Mauritius reveal
There is an important piece of local evidence. Phoenix Beverages published water-use figures in its 2024 annual report. The company reports that its production facilities obtain water mainly from local aquifers and monitor abstraction rates, water quality and groundwater recharge.

Phoenix Beverages — 2024 annual report
1,016,969 m³
Reported total water withdrawal during 2024, equivalent to approximately 1.02 billion litres.
4 litres
Approximately four litres of water withdrawn per litre of production, based on the report's overall water-use ratio of 0.40 m³ per hectolitre.
These are company-reported figures for Phoenix Beverages' operations, not a separately verified figure for Coca-Cola alone.
The report also describes rainwater harvesting at its Phoenix and Nouvelle France sites. It estimates that the Nouvelle France system reduces groundwater use by around 3,600 m³ annually. 
These figures do not prove that the company has depleted or contaminated drinking-water sources. They do, however, demonstrate why industrial water use deserves scrutiny in Mauritius.

Our recommendation for Mauritius 🇲🇺
Drinking water must take priority over non-essential industrial consumption. That is a reasonable principle for public policy, particularly where water resources are under pressure.
I would advocate for:
Mandatory public reporting of industrial water consumption and groundwater extraction.
Independent monitoring of aquifers near beverage factories.
Greater use of harvested rainwater and appropriately treated recycled water for cleaning and other non-drinking purposes.
Transparent wastewater testing and enforcement.
Stronger producer responsibility for plastic bottles, including effective collection and reuse systems.
The objective should not be to accuse a company without evidence. It should be to ensure that every company operating in Mauritius uses shared natural resources responsibly and is held to transparent environmental standards.

Mauritius must protect every drop of freshwater.
Beverage production can consume substantial quantities of water, while plastic bottles contribute to environmental pollution.
We must ask:
Are our groundwater resources being protected?
Is industrial water use sustainable?
Are companies accountable for their plastic waste?
Are our communities' drinking-water needs being prioritised?
Clean water is essential for life — not a resource we can afford to take for granted.
Extract from Google

02/11/2026

❗️🌞From November 2026 to October 2027🌪️❗️
🔥El Niño💦could increase the risk of hotter conditions, water shortages and unusual rainfall in Mauritius. However, the actual impact will depend on how the Pacific Ocean climate pattern develops, conditions in the Indian Ocean and the strength of the local rainy season.
It is important to distinguish between a possible impact and a confirmed forecast: El Niño does not automatically mean that Mauritius will experience a drought, a cyclone or a particularly hot summer.

What could happen in Mauritius?
1. Higher temperatures and heatwaves
Mauritius Meteorological Services forecasts above-normal temperatures during summer 2026–2027. On some days, temperatures along the western coast could reach around 36°C. High humidity and light winds could make conditions particularly uncomfortable from December to March. 
2. Water shortages and pressure on reservoirs
The official summer outlook projects about 1,100 mm of rainfall for Mauritius, approximately 80% of the long-term average. Hotter weather could increase evaporation and water consumption, putting additional pressure on reservoirs and household supplies. 
3. Agriculture and food prices
Longer dry spells could affect sugar cane, vegetables, fruit and livestock. Farmers may need more irrigation, increasing production costs. If water shortages or crop losses occur, some local food prices could rise.
4. Coral reefs, lagoons and marine life
Higher sea temperatures can increase coral bleaching risk. Marine ecosystems and tourism activities could be affected if prolonged marine heat develops. El Niño alone does not establish whether or when significant coral bleaching will occur around Mauritius.
5. Cyclones, flash floods and coastal damage
The official outlook expects 5–7 named storms across the South-West Indian Ocean basin this season. Mauritius may still experience dangerous cyclones, heavy swells, storm surges or flash floods. A lower number of storms does not guarantee a safe season, and El Niño does not tell us whether a cyclone will strike the island.

What should Mauritius do now?
Protect water supplies
Monitor reservoir levels, repair leaking pipes, promote water conservation and prepare contingency plans for prolonged dry spells.
Protect vulnerable people
Ensure elderly people, children, outdoor workers and people with health vulnerabilities can access drinking water, shade and cooler environments.
Support farmers and food security
Improve irrigation efficiency, protect soil moisture, plan water allocation and monitor crop conditions.
Protect coastal areas and marine wildlife
Monitor sea temperatures, coral health, coastal erosion and cyclone warnings. Enforce environmental protection rules.
The overall assessment
The most immediate concern for Mauritius is the combination of above-normal temperatures and below-normal seasonal rainfall. The official forecast already points to a hotter and drier-than-normal summer, so preparation should begin now rather than waiting for a severe water shortage.
The outlook is based on the Mauritius Meteorological Services' summer forecast published on 27 October 2026 and the wider El Niño outlook.

02/11/2026

MAIJA TOURS
Exclusive Tour to Mauritius — Swimming with Whales 🐋
January 5–15
Send a direct message to “Mauritius” to find out the tour itinerary.
Price: €2,100 per person

he advertisement raises a serious legal concern. Mauritius has regulations prohibiting people from swimming, diving or snorkelling with whales during whale-watching activities. The Mauritius Tourism Authority explicitly reminded boat operators of this prohibition in its communiqué of 5 July 2024. 
The advertisement offers an exclusive Mauritius tour “swimming with whales” from 5–15 January, priced at €2,100 per person. That wording is a reason to seek clarification before booking or promoting the tour.
What the law says
Swimming with whales: The Tourism Authority states that it is an offence for a boat operator or skipper to allow passengers under their responsibility to swim, dive or snorkel with whales during whale-watching activities. 
Keeping a safe distance: Mauritius's whale-watching framework also regulates how boats approach whales and the distances they must maintain. 
Enforcement is being strengthened: On 14 October 2026, the Government announced an enforcement squad and plans for stricter rules for dolphin and whale-watching activities.

01/11/2026

🚨What a great young man! 💯❗️
Zaheerkhan bought 45 gallons to distribute water.💦

Faced with the water cuts that affect many Mauritian homes, Zaheerkhan Loolmahamed, a student at Lycée Labourdonnais, chose to act. With his pocket money, he bought 45 gallons that he distributes daily, getting up at 6 a.m. to help people in need.

In Curepipe, rue Émile-Pitot, Zaherkhan Loolmahamed, 17, decided to give a special meaning to his school holidays. While other young people take advantage of their days to rest or go out with their friends, he chose to devote part of his time to bringing water to those who lack it. His initiative was born from a very simple reflection. At home, the water flows 24 hours a day. A situation that he considers an opportunity, especially when he thinks of families who have to wait several hours, or even more, to fill their containers. "At home, we have water at all hours. But I know it's not the case for everyone. I find it unfair to be able to open a tap when other people don't even have enough water for their basic needs. If I have the opportunity to share, why not do it? ", he confides.

With his pocket money, the boy bought 45 gallons to ensure his distributions. Since the beginning of the school holidays, his days start early. From 6 a.m., Zaheerkhan gets up to fill them before walking to distribute them to people who need them. This ritual requires time, energy and regularity. However, he does not seem to consider this effort as a constraint. "I wake up early because I want people to have water. It's not always easy, but when I think of those who need it, I find the motivation to continue, "he explains.

Among the people he helps are two elderly ladies who live alone. Every day, he takes the time to bring them water. Beyond the precious liquid he gives them, his presence also represents a sign of attention. "I think a lot about the elderly. Some live alone and do not always have someone to help them. I don't want them to have to fend for themselves when it comes to finding water. If I can make their lives easier, it makes me happy, "he says simply.

For him, it is not a matter of doing something extraordinary, but simply of responding to an essential need. "Water is vital. No one can live without water. We must understand that what we have easily today can be missing someone else tomorrow. ”

A pride for his parents

At home, this initiative does not go unnoticed. His parents follow his commitment with great pride and encourage him in this solidarity approach. Seeing their son devote his pocket money, time and energy to helping people in difficulty is a great satisfaction for them. They particularly appreciate the fact that he made this decision on his own initiative.

For them, the main thing is not the number of gallons distributed, but the human value of his gesture. "We are very proud of him. He could have used his money to buy something else or simply enjoy his vacation. But he thought about people who don't have water. We encourage him because we want him to keep this generosity and sensitivity towards others, "say his parents. Their support allows him to continue his action with enthusiasm. His brothers Zaheer and Zakary, as well as his sister Zendaya, also participate in this initiative.

Zaheerkhan reminds us that it is not necessary to be an adult, rich or at the head of an organization to make a difference in the lives of others. Sometimes it is enough to look around yourself, recognize the needs of others and decide not to look away. "I can't help everyone, but I can start with the people around me. Even if I give a single gallon to someone, it can already be useful to them. What matters is not to remain indifferent, "he says.

His initiative also carries a message about the value of water. Too often taken for granted when the taps are operating normally, it suddenly becomes valuable when the supply is interrupted. "We must learn to appreciate the water we have. You don't have to wait until something is missing to understand its importance. And when we have enough, we have to think about those who don't have that chance," he adds.

Through his initiative, Zaherkhan Loolmahamed gives a beautiful definition of solidarity. He does not claim to solve the water crisis. He simply chose to do his part, on his own scale. At his age, he has already understood that having water is a chance, but being able to share it is also a responsibility.

31/10/2026

🇲🇺 MAURITIUS DESERVES BETTER: LAWS MUST BE ENFORCED!

Mauritius is a beautiful country blessed with extraordinary natural beauty, stunning beaches, a unique marine environment, and a tourism industry that provides livelihoods for many people.

However, having laws is not enough. Laws must be enforced fairly, consistently, and without favouritism.

We need stronger and more visible enforcement in several important areas:

🌿 Environmental protection: Stop pollution, illegal dumping, and the destruction of our natural heritage.

🐋 Responsible tourism: Protect whales, dolphins, lagoons, coral reefs, and marine wildlife. Tourism must never come at the expense of nature.

🚗 Road safety: Apply traffic laws consistently and protect drivers, pedestrians, and other road users.

🏝️ Coastal protection: Investigate illegal construction and ensure that development respects the law and protects our coastline.

🏢 Business accountability: No company or individual should be allowed to put profit above public safety, environmental protection, or legal obligations.

⚖️ Equal treatment: The law must apply to everyone, regardless of wealth, influence, or connections.

We must also recognise the efforts of public officers who carry out their duties responsibly. Our aim should be to strengthen enforcement, improve transparency, and ensure that complaints are investigated properly.

Our message to the authorities is simple:

We do not necessarily need more laws. We need effective enforcement of the laws we already have, regular inspections, transparent reporting, and appropriate consequences when violations are proven.

Mauritius belongs to all of us. Protecting it is a shared responsibility.

🇲🇺 Beautiful Mauritius deserves responsible citizens, accountable businesses, and authorities that ensure the law is respected.

Let us protect our country not only with words, but with action.



Dr. Navin Ramgoolam, Prime Minister of Mauritius
Paul Raymond Berenger

31/10/2026

Do you know❓that you are not allowed❌ to wash your car 🚘 with drinking water 💦 that is water supplied by the CWA?
Still there are car wash stations in Grand Baie, Flacq, Goodlands, Moka…
Based on the fresh water tanks they have installed to the CWA pipes it cannot be recycled water they are using?
Once again the question, who is checking it?

Car washing is restricted in Mauritius under government water restrictions implemented on August 10, 2026.
Current Rules and Restrictions
• Home and Personal Washing: Washing vehicles, yards, and walkways using a hose, jet, or high-pressure cleaner with drinking/potable water is strictly banned.
• Car Wash Stations: Commercial car wash stations are prohibited from using drinking water, though some facilities remain open if they operate using recycled water or water-saving alternatives (such as waterless wash methods).

31/10/2026

🛑 STOP 🛑 Enough is Enough‼️
By Platform Moris Lanvironnman
Soutien à Jean Pierre Hardy, qui se démène depuis 2024 pour attirer l'attention sur ce projet, y compris sur le chemin pêcheurs. Concernant la station de dessalement, ces nouvelles dispositions pour l'abstraction de l'eau de mer et de rejet sur le site émanent du Water Resources Unit. En plus de ce que dit Jean Pierre Hardy sur le "leaching field" pour le rejet de la saumure (brine), y a-t-il assez de superfie pour accueillir un leaching adéquat ?
Il est temps de dire STOP à tous ces nouveaux projets d'hôtel et de PDS sur la côte, autant pour des raisons environnementales et écologiques que sociales et culturelles.
Platform Moris Lanvironnman a attiré l'attention sur tous ces projets sur les Salines Koenig depuis 2018.

Support for Jean Pierre Hardy, who has been working since 2024 to draw attention to this project, including the fishing path. Regarding the desalination station, these new arrangements for the extraction of seawater and discharge on site come from the Water Resources Unit. In addition to what Jean Pierre Hardy says about the "leaching field" for the discharge of brine, is there enough surface area to accommodate adequate leaching?
It is time to say STOP to all these new hotel and PDS projects on the coast, for environmental and ecological reasons as well as social and cultural reasons.
Platform Moris Lanvironnman has drawn attention to all these projects on the Koenig Salines since 2018.


Joanna Berenger
Dr. Navin Ramgoolam, Prime Minister of Mauritius

30/10/2026

Look around Mauritius 🇲🇺 too!
It’s an environmental disaster⚠️

Look around South Africa, and you will see the legacy of single-use plastic carrier bags: choking our waterways, littering pristine beaches, and clogging the drains that lead to severe flooding in communities.

It doesn't stop outdoors these plastics are now breaking down into the soil we farm and the marine life we consume.

Convenience should never cost us our home.
Join us in demanding a permanent end to single-use plastic carrier bags across South Africa.

Sign now to ban single-use plastic carrier bags for good. 👉 https://act.gp/4yLrH2Y

30/10/2026

Water crisis in Mauritius: How can we save water? 🇲🇺💧

Water is one of Mauritius’s most precious resources. Although our island receives rainfall, droughts, changing rainfall patterns, high demand and water losses from leaking pipes can put pressure on our reservoirs and water supply.

Saving water today helps protect our families, our environment, our agriculture and the future of Mauritius. Every household, hotel, business and public institution can make a difference.

1. Simple ways to save water at home

Turn off taps when not needed

Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth, shaving or soaping your hands. Fix dripping taps promptly.

Take shorter showers

Aim for a 3–5 minute shower where practical. A shower usually uses less water than filling a bathtub.

Collect rainwater

Use roof gutters and a covered storage tank to collect rainwater for watering plants and cleaning outdoor areas. Keep tanks secure and mosquito-proof.

Water gardens wisely

Water early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Use a watering can or drip irrigation, and choose plants that tolerate dry conditions.

Avoid wasting water outdoors

Use a bucket instead of a running hose to wash cars. Sweep driveways and patios rather than washing them down with water.

Use appliances efficiently

Run washing machines only with full loads when suitable. Reuse safe leftover water for appropriate cleaning tasks.

2. How much water could one household save?

These are illustrative estimates; actual savings depend on your habits and equipment.

Shorter showers

40–60 litres/day

Turning off taps

10–20 litres/day

Efficient outdoor cleaning

20–50 litres per use

Potential savings can add up to hundreds of litres per household each week. These figures are examples, not guaranteed savings.

3. What Mauritius must do as a country

Individual action is important, but the water crisis also needs long-term solutions. Recent government updates confirm that the situation is serious: on 8 October 2026, the main reservoirs were at 57.1% capacity, compared with 87.4% a year earlier. govmu.org +1

1. Repair leaking water pipes

Accelerate the replacement of ageing pipes, detect leaks quickly and reduce the enormous volume of treated water lost before reaching consumers.

2. Store more rainwater

Improve reservoirs, develop suitable smaller storage facilities and capture more runoff during heavy rainfall.

3. Reuse treated wastewater

Use properly treated wastewater for landscaping, industrial processes and other non-drinking purposes, reducing pressure on drinking-water supplies.

4. Diversify water sources

Assess desalination, sustainable groundwater extraction and other sources, while protecting rivers, wetlands and groundwater from pollution and overuse.

These approaches align with measures being considered or implemented by the Mauritian authorities. govmu.org +2

4. A seven-day water-saving challenge

Our household water challenge

0/7

Day 1: Check every tap and toilet for leaks

Day 2: Keep every shower short

Day 3: Collect rainwater if available

Day 4: Avoid using a hose for cleaning

Day 5: Run washing machines with suitable full loads

Day 6: Reuse suitable water for plants

Day 7: Check your water meter and discuss savings with your family

5. The most important message for Mauritius

Water is not unlimited. Saving it must become part of our everyday culture.

We need action from the government, the CWA, hotels, businesses, farmers and every citizen. Even small changes matter when thousands of households make them together.

For the latest restrictions and supply arrangements, check the official Central Water Authority through its official website⁠ and follow local notices.