Kathmandu— A recently constructed desalination plant that provided clean water to displaced families in Sheikh Radwan, northern Gaza, was destroyed on August 24 by an Israeli airstrike. The bombing has exacerbated the ongoing water crisis in Gaza, where over 90 percent of the population already faces frequent disruptions in access to safe drinking water.

Impact On Local Families

Zuhair al-Nasr, a 74-year-old resident of Sheikh Radwan, says he has been struggling to find clean water for his family since the plant was destroyed. For two months prior, the desalination facility had provided a steady and reliable source of drinking water, making life slightly easier during Israel’s ongoing conflict with Gaza. Now, Zuhair must travel long distances to secure water for his large family.

Owner's Losses

Mohammed Mahmoud, the 53-year-old owner of the destroyed desalination plant, estimates that he has lost at least $500,000. The facility had been providing free desalinated water to 17 shelters and collective centers in Sheikh Radwan for only two months before it was attacked. Mahmoud says the machinery and equipment alone cost about $250,000.

Gaza's Wider Water Crisis

The destruction of the plant comes as Gaza’s wider drinking water crisis deepens. A UN survey found that 90 percent of Gaza’s population experienced frequent disruptions in access to safe and reliable water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene in early July. In Gaza City, this figure was even higher at 92 percent.

Struggle For Clean Water

Nada Arouqi, a mother of four living in the Mukhabrat area, says water trucks often reach her neighborhood only two days a week. She must carry six containers from collection points back to her family’s displacement tent. The shortage has also raised concerns about the cleanliness of truck-delivered water; Nada's child developed a stomach illness linked to contaminated water.

The destruction of the desalination plant underscores the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where access to clean drinking water remains a critical issue.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

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Originally published on abcnews.com.np.