Two new dams to come up in N Sharqiyah

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources (MAFWR), in collaboration with the Tender Board, has initiated a process for the construction of two new dams in North Sharqiyah, demonstrating its commitment to bolstering the water sector in the sultanate.

In a statement, MAFWR said that these dams, to be built on Wadi Amad and Wadi Al Ghubaira in the wilayat of Dima Wa At Taien, aim to enhance groundwater recharge capabilities.

The ministry, informing about the floating of the tender, said that the deadline for submission is June 10.

As of 2020, the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI) reported existence of 169 dams across the sultanate, comprising 115 surface storage dams, 51 underground recharge dams, and three protection dams.

Highlighting the ongoing efforts to maintain and improve water infrastructure, MAFWR disclosed that during the first quarter of 2024, 38 aflaj (irrigation channels) and water springs received maintenance.

Additionally, 71 projects are underway to further bolster the water sector.

Statistics provided by MAFWR showcase the distribution of maintained aflaj across various governorates. Notably, one aflaj each was maintained in Musandam and North Batinah, with five aflaj in South Batinah, four in North Sharqiyah, three in South Sharqiyah, and seven in Dhahirah.

Furthermore, maintenance activities encompassed 17 water springs in Dhofar governorate.

Aflaj projects play a crucial role in supporting farmers and enhancing irrigation services, leveraging traditional water sources that have sustained Omanis for generations. The types of aflaj vary based on geological and hydrological characteristics.

North Batinah boasts 993 aflaj, including 408 in Sohar, 277 in Khabourah, 123 in Saham, 76 in Shinas, 73 in Liwa, and 36 in Suwaiq.

Across all governorates, Oman is home to 4,112 aflaj, underscoring their significance in the nation’s water management infrastructure.