Taiz – A large drinking water tank collapsed in the Al-Jahmaliya district of Taiz Governorate on Saturday, killing two civilians and injuring at least 17 others, according to local sources. 

The incident occurred during a peak rush hour as dozens of residents gathered to fill containers amid a severe water shortage gripping the city.

Eyewitnesses reported that the aging metal tank, mounted atop a concrete platform, gave way under pressure as crowds surged around it. The victims—both women—were crushed beneath the falling structure, while others sustained injuries ranging from fractures to head trauma. 

Emergency responders and volunteers rushed to the scene to assist the wounded and clear debris.

The collapse has sparked renewed outrage over deteriorating infrastructure and government inaction. Residents blame local authorities for failing to inspect and maintain public water facilities, many of which have been overused due to the collapse of the municipal water network.

Taiz has long suffered from chronic water scarcity, exacerbated by conflict, blockade, and climate change. With most wells dry and public supply systems inactive, citizens rely on charitable tanks and private vendors—often queuing for hours in unsafe conditions.

Civil society groups have called for an urgent investigation into the incident and demanded accountability from the Water and Sanitation Corporation. Humanitarian organizations warn that without immediate investment in safe water access, similar tragedies are likely to recur.