Watering trees and flowers in Addis Ababa is worsening the city’s ongoing water shortage, according to Meseret Meda. Trees and flowers planted as part of the so-called corridor development projects are being watered with trucked-in supplies from hydrants meant for drinking water, raising concerns about resource allocation during the crisis.

The Addis Ababa Water and Sewerage Authority sources confirmed that the trucks are drawing from hydrants designated for potable water. The use of trucks with a carrying capacity of 20,000 liters to pump water from those hydrants and irrigate plants poses a significant challenge for a city already struggling to keep its taps running, the report says.

In the Koye Fechu condominiums area, residents who previously received water once a week now have their supply reduced to once every two weeks, a frustrated homeowner said. Residents have complained about a gut-churning stench from the toilets that has been lingering inside the salon.

Thousands of city dwellers have lived for years without water flowing into their homes. The irregular supply is just one of many problems in the water sector. “Many days I don’t have water, and it makes daily life insufferable,” says Ayele, a 35-year-old souk owner in the Ferensay Legation area.

In Bole Arabisa, many condo residents are complaining about water pressure failing to reach the higher floors, often stopping after the fourth floor. Additionally, there are widespread leaks and sewage problems.