Algeria's Minister of Water Resources, Lounès Bouzegza, is set to launch a series of potable water projects across four regions, aiming to enhance the country's water security and ensure uninterrupted public services. The projects coincide with the 72nd anniversary of the Algerian Revolution's outbreak. The initiatives align with President Abdelmadjid Tebboune's instructions to boost water supply sources, upgrade existing infrastructure, and increase treated water volumes for households.
In Tlemcen, the minister launched connections to three new desalination plants built in Tlemcen, Mostaganem, and Chlef. These plants will supply water to coastal and inland areas, addressing a long-standing need. The project's goal is to distribute water produced by these plants to priority areas, as emphasized by the President during a Council of Ministers meeting on October 18.
The second phase of the project involves the transfer of water from the Tabellout dam in Jijel to the Dhraa Eddis dam in Sétif. This will directly benefit 15 communes in northeastern Sétif, ensuring a stable water supply throughout the year, even during dry months. This type of infrastructure supports Algeria's national hydraulic balance, which relies on 82 dams with a filling rate of around 60% as of last spring.
In Blida, the minister inaugurated a pipeline from the Fouka 2 desalination plant in Tipaza, benefiting eastern Blida communities. This project aims to increase water supply capacity and improve service continuity, addressing frequent disruptions in Algiers' suburbs. The new pipeline will enhance the water distribution network, providing a more reliable service to residents.
The most extensive project is underway in In Guezzam, where work has begun to supply the Tin Zaouatine area from the Tanezrouft aquifer in Bordj Badji Mokhtar. The 250-kilometer pipeline, traversing the desert, demonstrates the government's commitment to providing equal access to water resources nationwide. This project will primarily rely on groundwater to supply water to southern border areas.
Collectively, these projects aim to strengthen Algeria's hydraulic infrastructure and boost production capacity. The government has allocated over 1,469 billion dinars to support these and other hydraulic projects. However, addressing water losses remains a challenge, with a 23-billion-dinar emergency program launched to tackle leaks and unauthorized connections.
The Algerian government's strategy focuses on producing more water, transferring it efficiently, and minimizing waste. These efforts reflect a comprehensive approach to ensuring a sustainable and reliable water supply, aligning with the country's long-term development goals. By investing in water infrastructure, Algeria aims to enhance its water security and provide better services to its citizens.
Key points
- Algeria's government has allocated over 1,469 billion dinars to support hydraulic projects nationwide.
