Morocco: Towards New Hydraulic Simulation Models for Better Water Crisis Management
Adapting Hydraulic Simulation Models in Morocco: A Response to Water Resource Pressures
In light of increasing droughts and mounting pressure on water resources, Morocco is preparing a comprehensive study aimed at identifying and adapting the most efficient hydraulic simulation models to the country’s national specifics.
This project is spearheaded by the Water Research and Planning Directorate (Direction de la Recherche et de la Planification de l’Eau) under the auspices of the ministry responsible for water, as part of a broader modernization initiative for water governance.
A Resource Under Growing Pressure
The country faces significant challenges, including declining precipitation, prolonged drought episodes, and an ongoing rise in water demand linked to urbanization, population growth, and industrial and agricultural needs. These tensions undermine the national water balance and necessitate more precise and proactive planning.
Limitations of Current Simulation Tools
Several hydraulic simulation models are already in use in Morocco; however, their effectiveness remains limited. They do not always account for the country’s climatic, geographical, and hydrological specifics. Furthermore, their capacity to integrate the effects of climate change is insufficient, especially as projections indicate worsening droughts and increased precipitation variability.
Three Steps to Develop a Tailored National Model
The Water Research and Planning Directorate has structured its project into three main phases:
- A thorough diagnosis of existing models both in Morocco and internationally.
- A multi-criteria evaluation to select the tools best suited to the national context.
- The deployment of a pilot model in two representative hydraulic basins in the north and south of the country.
Towards an Advanced Water Management Tool
The future model will need to anticipate flows, droughts, and floods while optimizing the management of dams and interconnected hydraulic systems. It will also integrate the interactions between surface and groundwater and the needs of various economic sectors.
Strengthening Skills and International Cooperation
The project includes a training component for the personnel of the Water Research and Planning Directorate, as well as an exchange mission to a pioneering country in water management for the benefit of Moroccan engineers.
The entire program is set to be completed within 12 months, with the ultimate goal of equipping Morocco with advanced simulation tools for better anticipation of water stress periods and optimized water resource management.
