The potability index for water in this country remains below 80%, which means it is not fit to drink in many places. The internationally accepted norm is 95%. However, El Siglo reports that in 1991, the index was at 52% and it gradually increased over the next few years to reach 83%. However, from 1995 to 1998, it dropped down to about 77% and stayed at that level. Water quality specialist Rosa Urania Abréu says the situation is troubling. She says Dominican health authorities are trying to raise the potability index to 84% and as a result reduce the negative effects of bad water on the public.
