Northern Jordan Valley, May 7 (Petra) – Secretary-General of the Jordan Valley Authority Hisham Hayseh on Thursday inaugurated a consultative session for the environmental and social impact assessment study of the King Abdullah Canal Water Loss Reduction Project, funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development through KfW Development Bank.

Hayseh said the project supports national efforts to strengthen water security and improve water resource management efficiency, underscoring the importance of coordination among government institutions, funding agencies, and local communities in addressing water challenges and advancing sustainable development goals.

He described the project as a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing water conveyance efficiency and reducing water losses, with expected positive impacts on both drinking water supply and the agricultural sector. He also commended the continued support provided by the KfW for water sector projects in the Kingdom.

Hayseh said the project includes the rehabilitation of the northern section of the canal through relining works and related infrastructure upgrades, which are expected to reduce water loss, improve operational efficiency, and support Jordan’s efforts to conserve water resources, adapt to climate change, and bolster long-term water security.

The session brought together representatives from the Jordan Valley Authority, the Ministry of Environment, the funding agency, relevant public institutions, farmers, water user associations, and municipalities to discuss the project’s environmental and social dimensions.

Director of Irrigation and Infrastructure Projects Jumana Duwairi outlined the project’s objectives and highlighted the significance of the rehabilitation works in extending the canal’s operational lifespan. She noted that water losses in the canal’s northern section exceed 22 percent, making rehabilitation a key priority.

Participants stressed the importance of continued coordination among stakeholders to ensure efficient implementation of the project, improve water resource management, reduce water loss, and strengthen the sustainability of water supplies for domestic and agricultural use.

//Petra// AJ