Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Al-Masry Al-Youm
Published on 2024-03-29 11:00:35
The Ministry of Irrigation and Water Resources, in collaboration with the Faculty of Engineering at Cairo University and the people of Siwa Oasis, embarked on the ambitious “Developing the Irrigation and Drainage System in Siwa Oasis” project. This project, with a budget of three billion LE, aims to provide lasting solutions to long-standing issues that have plagued the region for the past 30 years.
On World Water Day, Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Sewilam announced significant advancements in the project. One key aspect of the initiative involved drilling deep wells to extract fresh water from the Nubian sandstone aquifer. This freshwater would then be mixed with surface well water, effectively reducing the strain on the shallow groundwater aquifer by closing many groundwater wells that were depleting its resources.
The Siwa Oasis Development Project also includes the construction of several bridges spanning a total of 14 kilometers across Siwa Lake. Additionally, a 33.7-kilometer-long open canal is being excavated to facilitate the transfer of agricultural drainage water to the eastern part of the oasis through the Antfour pumping station. This station will pump agricultural drainage water through a 5.7-kilometer canal that connects to the open canal, ensuring efficient water management in the region.
In the fight against climate change and the conservation of water resources, the Egyptian government has undertaken numerous projects aimed at harvesting rainwater and implementing industrial initiatives. A total of 268 industrial projects have been completed in Upper Egypt at a cost of LE1.68 billion, with an additional 70 projects currently underway costing LE1.33 billion. Looking ahead, plans are in place to establish 69 industrial projects totaling LE4.61 billion.
In the governorates of North and South Sinai, the Red Sea, and Matrouh, 1,359 industrial projects have been executed at a cost of five billion LE. Currently, 20 projects are in progress, amounting to a total of LE480 million. Future endeavors include the implementation of 20 new industrial projects at a cost of LE5.6 billion. Additionally, the ministry is reassessing protection projects to enhance their storage capacity in response to changing climatic conditions and the heightened risk of extreme hydrological events.
The commitment to improving the irrigation and water management systems in Siwa Oasis is a testament to Egypt’s dedication to sustainable development and the preservation of its natural resources. Through collaborative efforts and innovative solutions, the country is working towards a more resilient and water-secure future for all its citizens.
Read Original article on Egypt Independent
