Date Published: Thursday, December 26, 2024
Category: Economy
Algiers – The Minister of Water Resources, Taha Derbal, outlined on Thursday at the National People’s Assembly the sector’s strategy to provide potable water amid declining rainfall. The strategy prioritizes non-traditional water sources, particularly desalinated seawater, alongside inter-dam connections and major water transfer projects.
Key Highlights of the Strategy
During the public session chaired by Ayoub Hammad, Vice President of the Assembly, and attended by several government members, Minister Derbal emphasized:
- Access to Desalinated Seawater:
- Interior provinces within a 150 km radius of desalination plants will benefit from potable water produced by these facilities.
- This measure is part of directives from President Abdelmadjid Tebboune to improve public water services significantly.
- Water Reallocation for Agriculture:
- Significant quantities of dam water will be redirected to agricultural use.
- Treated wastewater, following advanced processing, will be used for irrigating orchards, legumes, and vegetables without restrictions.
- Water Redistribution Projects:
- Drinking water will be supplied through inter-dam connections, promoting solidarity between regions with varying water availability.
- Large-scale water transfer projects, including South-South and South-North transfers, are also planned.
Regional Water Supply and Infrastructure
The minister addressed local water issues, citing:
- Southern Sétif Municipalities:
- New boreholes are being drilled and existing ones rehabilitated, adding 6,000 m³/day to the water supply.
- The Bou Taleb 2 borehole project will contribute an additional 5,000 m³/day, enhancing distribution intervals.
- Wastewater Treatment Projects:
- Plans are underway to manage sewage outlets in municipalities like El Hamma and Bou Taleb.
- A natural basin treatment plant will be established to process wastewater effectively.
- Dam Construction in Batna Province:
- While detailed studies for new dams have been completed, these projects remain suspended due to budgetary constraints.
Urban Sanitation and Water Reuse
In Tamanrasset, a comprehensive sanitation plan is being developed to modernize sewage systems and eliminate problematic areas. Additionally:
- Treated wastewater from Tamanrasset’s station is being used for local green spaces.
- Plans are under review to extend its use for irrigating palm groves.
These measures highlight the sector’s focus on integrating innovative solutions and sustainable practices to address water resource challenges in Algeria.
For more information, visit DZWATCH.DZ.
Author: Nor-Eleslam
