Algerian Water Resources Minister Lounas Bouzagza recently chaired a coordination meeting to discuss the implementation of sectoral programs and projects. The meeting was held via video conference and was attended by state water managers, sector officials, and institutions under the ministry's supervision. The focus was on executing emergency programs and measures to improve public water services.
Minister Bouzagza emphasized the importance of adhering to President Abdelmadjid Tebboune's directives on rationalizing well-drilling licenses to protect groundwater resources. He also stressed the need to accelerate the implementation of the emergency program, aiming to achieve at least 70% completion before the start of Ramadan. This involves expediting project execution, addressing delays, and ensuring that all administrative, technical, and financial procedures are completed.
The minister instructed officials to establish local cells to monitor water supply situations across provinces and ensure swift intervention to address any disruptions. He also emphasized the need to improve storage and distribution capacities, rehabilitate water networks, and address leaks. Additionally, Bouzagza called for the elimination of illegal water connections, which cause disruptions in water distribution and affect service regularity.
To prepare for the upcoming period, Bouzagza highlighted the importance of taking measures to ensure continuity of water supply during Ramadan. This includes anticipating potential disruptions due to weather fluctuations and ensuring that concerned services are ready to intervene quickly when needed. He also encouraged the use of treated wastewater for agricultural irrigation, which can help reduce pressure on traditional water resources.
The minister reminded attendees of the need to adhere to President Tebboune's directives on rationalizing well-drilling licenses and protecting groundwater from over-exploitation. He called for enhanced monitoring and coordination among sector institutions to ensure that programs are implemented effectively and that projects are completed within specified timelines.
Bouzagza also emphasized the importance of improving public water services and responding to citizens' concerns. He instructed officials to accelerate the completion of wastewater treatment plants and expand irrigated areas benefiting from these resources. Furthermore, he encouraged the use of treated wastewater for agricultural purposes, which can help alleviate pressure on conventional water resources.
The Algerian government is taking steps to protect its water resources and improve public water services. The Ministry of Water Resources is working to implement emergency programs, rationalize well-drilling licenses, and promote the use of treated wastewater for agricultural irrigation. These efforts aim to ensure the sustainable management of water resources and improve the quality of life for Algerian citizens.
Key points
- Algerian Water Resources Minister Lounas Bouzagza emphasizes the need to rationalize well-drilling licenses to protect groundwater from over-exploitation.
