Amid global celebrations for Water Day, Bauru, a city in São Paulo, is acutely facing water supply issues, having been under a rationing scheme for the past seven months. The low flow of the Batalha River, which is the primary water source for almost 100,000 residents, is at the center of this crisis. Local authorities are struggling to maintain adequate access to this critical resource, raising concerns as the community anticipates the upcoming dry season.

In light of these challenges, the Municipal Fund for the Recovery of Surface Water Sources was established in 2019 to finance projects aimed at restoring rivers, streams, and tributaries that supply water to Bauru, with a particular focus on the Upper Batalha basin. Although the fund currently holds approximately R$ 5.8 million, it has been underutilized, with less than 2% of its resources expended since its inception, raising questions about the management of the fund and the effectiveness of recovery efforts.

The underutilization of the fund is particularly concerning given the pressing need for infrastructure improvements to combat water shortages. As Bauru continues to face significant water insecurity, it emphasizes the importance of timely project implementation and effective resource management to ensure a sustainable water supply for its residents, especially with the dry season looming.