Amman, Jan. 7 (Petra) -- Minister of Water and Irrigation Raed Abu Saud on Wednesday signed a €2.8 million consulting services agreement to prepare studies and oversee a feasibility assessment for the disposal and reuse of biosolids at Khirbet As-Samra Wastewater Treatment Plant, which is financed by the German Development Bank (KfW).

The project is supported by the Water Authority and the European Union under Phase II of climate change mitigation measures in the wastewater sector.

Speaking in the presence of Water Authority Secretary General Sufian Battayneh and KfW representatives, Abu Saud said the project is a key government initiative to improve wastewater services for citizens and to advance the Economic Modernization Vision under the Water Authority’s plans and the National Water Strategy (2023--2040).

He said it will contribute to environmentally sound wastewater treatment, the safe disposal of sewage sludge, and reduced energy consumption.

The minister said the scope includes preparing studies and supervising implementation of a tender to expand a Mono Landfill near Khirbet As-Samra Plant through construction of Cell No. (2). The dedicated facility will receive and store sludge in line with international specifications and environmentally friendly methods to preserve soil integrity, prevent contamination, protect groundwater, and reduce odors and insects.

Saud added that the project also covers installing biogas extraction systems to generate electricity, alongside developing additional solutions to utilize sludge for agricultural and industrial purposes in accordance with the latest global practices.

He commended Jordanian-European cooperation, particularly KfW, for financing projects, expressing the Jordanian government’s and the water sector’s appreciation for continued aid.

//Petra// AO