**Tijuana’s Water Supply Not Affected by U.S. Decision on Emergency Connection**
The Water Secretary of Baja California, Victor Daniel Amador Barragán, has assured the public that Tijuana will not be impacted by the U.S. government’s refusal to provide water from the Colorado River via the Mesa de Otay emergency connection. Although details on the volume of water and budget for the potential purchase were not provided, Barragán mentioned that the request for water was a precautionary measure made at the end of 2024.
Contradicting previous statements, the State Water Commission, also led by Barragán, had declared in January 2025 that activating this emergency connection was not in the plans. The transfer of water through the Mesa de Otay is part of Mexico’s allotted share from the Colorado River, governed by the 1972 Boundary and Waters Commission Agreement.
This emergency water purchase process is separate from the annual water allocation established by the 1944 treaty, which has been reduced due to ongoing negotiations between Mexico and the U.S. under Acts 330 and 323, addressing the drought conditions affecting the Colorado River Basin.
In a statement released on March 21, 2025, Barragán confirmed that Mexico will continue to receive its usual share of water, countering rumors of a decrease. The El Carrizo Dam, currently at 70% capacity, is one of the highest levels seen in recent years, ensuring an adequate water supply with the help of the BOOSTER pumping system, preventing any need for water rationing.
In alignment with the State Water Program, efforts to enhance infrastructure continue, including the rehabilitation of wells at the Mesa Arenosa de Andrade, modernization of the Colorado River-Tijuana Aqueduct, and enhancement of other critical systems.
**Conflicting Reports and Comments**
Earlier this year, the State Water Commission had detailed an agreement with Irrigation District 014, the Water Bank, and the National Water Commission to secure water supply for Tijuana, Tecate, Playas de Rosarito, and parts of Ensenada. The arrangement includes up to 85 million cubic meters of water at a cost of $1,300 pesos per thousand cubic meters.
Federal Deputy Armando Fernández Samaniego downplayed the U.S. decision, stating the absence of an emergency purchase will not cause water shortages, as the amount involved is what Tijuana consumes over four days. The Colorado River Aqueduct is operating efficiently, supplying more water than Tijuana requires, and the Rosarito desalination plant is projected to further stabilize supply once completed.
Fernández Samaniego acknowledged a debt of approximately 1.5 billion cubic meters of water from Mexico to the U.S., despite the latter’s adherence to their delivery commitments.
**Additional Insights**
In related news, the decision by the U.S. government marks a historic moment, as it’s the first time water has been denied for Tijuana following complaints from Texas. However, Mexican officials, including Baja California’s state representatives, remain confident in their contingency plans and current water reserves.
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