A. M. 
The repair of a 48-inch pipeline at the Apopa Central Station is causing interruptions in drinking water service for thousands of families and businesses in San Salvador and La Libertad. The project, being carried out in five phases, is considered key to stabilizing the supply in one of the country’s highest water consumption areas.
The Administración Nacional de Acueductos y Alcantarillados reported that work is progressing with the removal of the damaged structure and the installation of a new base, a process that could take several days.
To mitigate the impact, the contingency plan includes the distribution of more than 100 water tanker trucks to communities, schools, and residential areas.
As part of the contingency plan, authorities confirmed that hospitals and health units are also being supplied with water trucks. In particular, El Salvador Hospital receives a constant supply of water, allowing medical care to continue normally without impacting health services.
ANDA confirmed that El Salvador Hospital and other medical centers receive water regularly, ensuring that patient care continues normally.
Although the emergency remains under control, analysts warn that the prolonged lack of drinking water generates additional costs for households and productive sectors, in addition to the operating expenses of mobilizing tankers daily. This case once again highlights the need for greater investment in water infrastructure to avoid recurring service interruptions.
Experts point out that the shortage of drinking water can translate into economic losses due to rising water prices, reduced business productivity, and pressure on public health. “Although there is a contingency plan, the cost of transporting water by tanker truck is high, and if it continues, it could affect consumers’ pockets and state finances”, commented a water analyst.
El Salvador’s water infrastructure faces a historical lag, making these types of emergencies frequent. The current repairs reflect both the urgency of maintaining an aging system and the need for greater investment to guarantee a stable, long-term service.
