This paper analyzes the situation of supply of drinking water for residents in the seats of municipalities in Ceará with minor and major and HDI, respectively, with higher and lower rates of growth in that index. The main objective of this analysis is to identify the main contrasts and similarities between the municipalities regarding the conditions of supply of drinking water, especially with regard to the current bid; critical levels of supplies, and investments in the sector. Data were collected by the National Water Agency (ANA). Based on the results obtained it was concluded that in municipalities with the highest HDI: have a greater expectation of meeting the water supply for the year 2015; there is a better distribution of water sources; the management systems of water supply is more decentralized; and, there is a lower frequency of conflicts over water use. In all districts examined, however, the main cause of conflicts over water use is the silting of water sources, mainly from the reservoirs.
Water; Management; Ceará
