Egypt's Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Hani Suwelim, has announced that his ministry is continuing with several major projects in the field of water resources and irrigation. These projects aim to support the comprehensive development of the Sinai Peninsula, in line with directives from President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. This effort coincides with Egypt's celebrations of the 53rd anniversary of the October 6 victories.
Minister Suwelim stated that his ministry is participating in the anniversary celebrations by continuing the implementation of developmental projects in Sinai. These projects are expected to contribute to achieving development goals, serving the local population, and supporting the state's efforts in land reclamation and enhancing food security. One of the key projects is the Bahr El-Baqr wastewater treatment plant.
The Bahr El-Baqr wastewater treatment plant is considered one of the most prominent projects serving development plans in North and Central Sinai. It is noted as the second-largest wastewater treatment plant globally, with a capacity of 5.60 million cubic meters per day. The plant and its water conveyance pipelines represent a crucial step in supporting agricultural reclamation projects in Sinai.
The implementation of the two water conveyance pipelines, numbered 1 and 2, from the Bahr El-Baqr plant has reached approximately 91% completion. The project aims to provide the necessary water for irrigating up to 270,000 feddans. These works are part of an integrated system of projects that aim to provide the basic infrastructure necessary for agricultural and urban expansion in development areas in North and Central Sinai.
As part of the North Sinai development project, 24 water intakes are being constructed on the Sheikh Gaber canal. These intakes are intended to serve an area of up to 125,000 feddans in the Rabaa and Bir Al-Abd regions. So far, 21 intakes have been completed, while work continues on the remaining three, with an expected completion soon.
The Egyptian government has established 16 developmental clusters in North and South Sinai. These clusters include groundwater wells, agricultural land, residential houses, and administrative and service facilities. The goal is to provide the essentials for life and development, thereby serving the local population in Sinai.
In terms of protection from flood risks, Minister Suwelim mentioned that his ministry has implemented 561 diverse structures in North and South Sinai. These structures include dams, barriers, artificial channels, lakes, and ground reservoirs. They are designed to protect citizens and facilities from flood risks while also utilizing rainfall water.
Key points
- The Bahr El-Baqr wastewater treatment plant has a capacity of 5.60 million cubic meters per day.
- 91% of the water conveyance pipelines from the Bahr El-Baqr plant have been completed.
- 561 structures have been implemented in Sinai for protection from flood risks.
