Cochabamba, Bolivia

Cochabamba, Bolivia, faces a complex water security crisis shaped by rapid population growth, economic inequality, fragmented governance, and ecological vulnerabilities. With a population exceeding 1.4 million and significant non-revenue water losses due to outdated infrastructure, the city struggles to meet rising water demands. Water sources, including the Corani Dam and local aquifers, are strained by climate change, deforestation, and pollution, while informal settlements often lack affordable access. Historical tensions, such as the 2000 Water War, reflect ongoing political and social challenges in water governance, with inefficient coordination between municipal utilities and community cooperatives. Economic constraints limit investment in critical infrastructure, and the reliance on private water vendors underscores inequalities in access. Addressing Cochabamba’s water security requires integrated ecological management, infrastructure modernization, and inclusive policy-making to ensure sustainable and equitable resource distribution.