In the bustling heart of Mexico lies a city on the brink of disaster. Mexico City, home to nearly 22 million souls, is facing a water crisis of monumental proportions. The challenges it faces are complex, and daunting, and demand urgent attention. 

The city, which was once a traveller's paradise, is facing one of its biggest water crises. The visitors to this beautiful city know the serene beauty of this place. 

Those who are planning to travel to Mexico and the neighbouring cities of Tulum and Cancun, need not be disheartened. Crisis can be averted if we all learn to travel, sustainably.

To know how to travel sustainably, we must understand the deep-seated issue of water pollution and shortage and why some of the most popular travel destinations are facing water scarcity.

1. The Challenge

Mexico City's water crisis is not a simple issue with an easy fix. It's a perfect storm brewing from multiple factors colliding. From geographical limitations to failing infrastructure, from rampant urbanisation to the relentless march of climate change, each challenge exacerbates the other, creating a tangled web of water woes.

2. The grim reality of drought

Prolonged droughts have become the harsh reality for Mexico City, a metropolis originally perched on a high-altitude lake bed. The scant rainfall mocks the city's desperate thirst while sinking land levels and seismic vulnerabilities add to its woes. What was once a thriving oasis is now a parched landscape, crying out for relief.

3. The specter of "Day Zero"

"Day zero" looms ominously over Mexico City, a haunting term that signifies the apocalypse of water sources drying up entirely. While politicians may downplay the severity, experts like atmospheric scientist Christian Domínguez Sarmiento issue grave warnings.

Are we mere months away from this catastrophic event?

4. Dependent on dwindling resources

Mexico City's dependence on an over-exploited underground water table is akin to a reckless gamble with already scarce resources. The inefficiencies of its water distribution system only exacerbate the crisis, haemorrhaging precious liquid through leaks. The city is in a race against time, betting on a losing hand.

5. The ailing Cutzamala water system

The Cutzamala water system, a lifeline for a quarter of Mexico City's population, is at historic lows. Its reservoirs depleted by merciless droughts, there's no reprieve in sight. Nearly 90% of the city's territory is gripped by severe drought conditions, and the situation is dire.

6. A beacon of hope

Amidst the dire forecasts and grim statistics, there shines a beacon of hope. Experts rally for swift and decisive action, urging policymakers to heed the warnings and implement meaningful reforms. It's a call to arms echoing through the corridors of power and the alleyways of the barrios.

7. How is this impacting traveller sentiments?

The hour is late, but not too late. Mexico City stands at a crossroads, teetering between salvation and ruin. The path forward demands courage, vision, and above all, unity in the face of adversity. The time to act is now, for in the battle against nature's fury, there can be no second chances.

As a traveller and admirer of Mexico's scenic locales, we urge fellow travellers to observe sustainable practices. Mexico is on the verge of a crisis and we can only assist, by being mindful of our activities. According to data, the country can become drought-stricken in about a few months. 

That should serve us all with a reminder that the planet is our home- whether we live in India or anywhere across the globe. 

All of this can be attributed to less rainfall, thanks to the global climate crisis. But how can you as a traveller, contribute to this cause?

8. Mindful Sustainable Practices 

As a traveller, the best thing we can do is to understand that the country is operating on limited resources and not contribute to the crisis. 

If you want to help, donate to charities or organisations that are working to solve the problem. 

And most importantly, it begins from home. Try not to waste resources, wherever you are and that will transcend to being mindful. Nature has enough for our needs, but not for our greed.

Please donate to the cause of Mexico here: Caminosdeagua