Capri, a renowned tourist hotspot, is grappling with a critical water supply shortage after a main pipeline burst, leading to a temporary ban on tourist arrivals. Mayor Paolo Falco has taken decisive action to prioritize the island’s limited water resources for residents and essential services by prohibiting tourists without hotel reservations from entering. The ordinance came into effect following the pipeline burst on June 20, which has left some areas, including Anacapri, without water.Ferries to the island have been suspended, causing long lines and confusion at ports in Naples and Sorrento. While local reservoirs are being used, they are expected to deplete rapidly under the current strain. Gori, the water supply company, is working to resolve the issue, but technical difficulties have resulted in continued disruptions.In a recent development, Mayor Fallo has modified the initial ordinance, allowing tourists with confirmed hotel bookings to enter Capri. This decision aims to balance the urgent need for water conservation with the economic impact on the tourism-dependent island. The regional government has assured that the water supply will be restored within hours, and the local administration is deploying water trucks to distribute potable water to residents and tourists.The crisis has highlighted the environmental impact of mass tourism, and Italy is promoting sustainable tourism initiatives to mitigate such issues in the future. As Capri prepares to welcome back tourists, Mayor Falco has apologized for the inconvenience and emphasized the importance of preventing a healthcare emergency.
Key points
- Capri’s mayor Paolo Falco restricts tourist access due to a severe water pipeline burst, affecting supply from the mainland.
- Tourists without hotel reservations are barred from the island to conserve water for residents and essential services.
- Amidst the crisis, Capri is now allowing tourists with hotel bookings to enter, as local authorities work to remedy the water shortage.
- The regional government and Gori company are actively working to restore the water supply, with assurances of resolution within hours.
