Peru is one of the world's countries most affected by climate change. Over the long term this means an increase in extreme weather events and water shortages.
In the basin of the Mantaro River, water demand seasonally exceeds the limited supply, as it does in Peru's other river basins. Farmers are increasingly experiencing problems with water quality and availability. This creates conflicts, with vulnerable population groups being at a particular disadvantage.
In recent years the Peruvian Government has created the legal framework for Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM). This involves all user groups as well as administrators and scientists in finding solutions to current and future challenges. The state is investing in skills and infrastructure in water basins, however the development of IWRM for Mantaro is still at an early stage.
Integrated and climate-sensitive management of water resources in the Mantaro basin is improved.
The project provides the competent authorities with support to improve the information systems and decision-making in water resource management. It aims to reduce problems and conflicts over water in the Mantaro area and involve groups that are in particular need of protection. This will be aided by cross-departmental involvement and participation schemes.
The project improves the environmental assessment process for large investment projects with the aim of minimising the impacts on water resources. The project also provides nationwide support to the IWRM to share positive experiences.
The project partners are the Ministry of Agrarian Development and Irrigation (Ministerio de Desarrollo Agrario y Riego, MIDAGRI), the National Water Authority (Autoridad Nacional del Agua, ANA) and the Administrative Water Authority, AAA Mantaro). The Basin Water Resources Council's (Consejo de Recursos Hídricos de Cuenca, CRHC) role is to improve coordination between water users..
The project is supported by the consulting firm AKUT Umweltschutz Ingenieure Burkard und Partner mbB.