Abstract

This study analyzes the interplay between water scarcity and urban planning challenges in Algeria from 2014 to 2024, focusing on major cities such as Algiers, Oran, Constantine, and Annaba. Using an environmental-urban systems framework, the research collected hydrological data, municipal planning documents, satellite imagery, and household surveys (n = 4,600). Interviews with urban planners, water-resource managers, and environmental policymakers (n = 50) supplemented the quantitative data. Findings reveal that recurrent droughts, population growth, and deteriorating water infrastructure have significantly strained urban water supply systems. Time-series analysis shows a consistent decline in per-capita water availability, with peak shortages occurring during summer months. Urban planning assessments indicated weak integration of water-resource management into city expansion policies, leading to overburdened distribution networks and informal settlements lacking piped water access. Statistical analysis confirmed that infrastructure age, leakage rates, and poor spatial planning were major predictors of service disruption (p < 0.05). Coping mechanisms adopted by households included water storage tanks, private boreholes, and purchasing from water vendors—strategies that increased inequality in access. Although recent investments in desalination plants and inter-basin transfers have improved supply stability, institutional fragmentation and limited public participation remain persistent barriers. The study concludes that addressing Algeria’s water scarcity requires coordinated urban planning reforms, modernization of water infrastructure, and expansion of climate-resilient supply systems. Recommendations include strengthening municipal–national coordination, enforcing water-sensitive urban design regulations, and integrating community-based water management initiatives into city planning.