The Algerian ministry of Water Resources has allocated approximately 9 billion Algerian dinars ($63 million or roughly $9 million USD, according to current exchange rates) for a project to connect six communes in the southern part of Bejaia province to the Tichy Haf water barrage. The communes set to benefit from this initiative are Ighram, Boudjellil, Ighil Ali, Beni Melikeche, Tazmalt, and Ait Rzine. This development is expected to improve access to potable water for the local population.
Five companies, including three joint ventures, have been selected to undertake the connection works. These companies were announced during a working session chaired by Bejaia's Wali (Governor), Ahmed Maabed. The Wali urged the companies to commence work as soon as possible. To ensure the project's timely progression, it was decided that meetings would be held every Wednesday to review the work's evolution.
The project aims to supply potable water to around 85,000 inhabitants. According to the Wali, this undertaking is of paramount importance for the region's development. In addition to the connections, a new water treatment station will be built in Ait Rzine. This station will have an initial treatment capacity of 400 liters per second, expandable to 600 liters per second.
Construction on the Tichy Haf water transfer project began in 2006. The project is designed to supply water to regions along the Akbou-Bejaia corridor. Currently, nearly half of Bejaia's 52 communes, comprising 479 villages and 332,000 inhabitants, receive their potable water from the Tichy Haf barrage.
The Tichy Haf barrage, situated between Bouhamza and Tamokra communes, is Bejaia's most significant surface water resource. The barrage has a total capacity of 81 million cubic meters. It features a treatment station with a daily capacity of 120,000 cubic meters and produces approximately 100,000 cubic meters of potable water per day.
During a separate working session, the Wali emphasized the need to expedite the compensation process for those affected by the project. This will enable the selected companies to commence their work without delay. The project's progress and the timely completion of the connections are crucial for improving the region's water supply.
The connections and new water treatment station are expected to significantly enhance the water supply for the six communes. Once completed, the project will provide a reliable source of potable water for the local population, promoting development and improving living conditions in the region.
Key points
- Algeria's ministry allocates $9 million to connect six communes in Bejaia to Tichy Haf water barrage
- The project aims to supply potable water to around 85,000 inhabitants
- A new water treatment station will be built in Ait Rzine with an initial capacity of 400 liters per second
