The Manouba region in Tunisia is making significant progress in its efforts to prevent flood risks ahead of the winter season. The regional development delegation's water and hydraulic equipment department has reported that its program to dredge and clean oueds and canals has reached a 40% completion rate. This project, initiated in June, aims to cover a distance of 40 kilometers across several delegations, including Tébourba, El Battan, Jedeida, Oued Ellil, Borj El Amri, and Mornaguia.
A total budget of 360,000 dinars has been allocated to this project, which involves the dredging, cleaning, and removal of sediment, bushes, and debris that obstruct the normal flow of water. The project has already treated over 15 kilometers of critical points, including the Souïeh oued in Tébourba, the Hbibia oued, the Aouja oued, and a watercourse near Chafrou in Jedeida. These areas are prone to flooding, and the project aims to enhance protection for residential and riverbank zones.
The project is crucial in increasing the retention and evacuation capacity of watercourses, thereby reducing the risk of floods. This initiative follows a first phase completed at the beginning of the year, which saw the dredging of 100% of "blue points" over a distance of 15 kilometers. The ongoing project is part of a broader effort to prepare for the winter season and mitigate potential flood risks in the region.
In addition to the current project, the direction has announced plans to launch a new tender to select the best offer for an additional 15 kilometers of river and watercourse dredging, with a budget of approximately 280,000 dinars. This new project will complement an existing intervention for the dredging of irrigation basins estimated at 90,000 dinars and a series of interventions targeting 17 kilometers of watercourses at a cost of 350,000 dinars.
The projects prioritize oueds requiring dredging, those overrun with tamaris and reeds, sediment accumulation, and drainage channels in irrigated areas. The interventions are carried out in close coordination with local authorities, focusing on areas that require urgent attention as the precipitation season approaches.
The efforts of the Manouba region's authorities aim to minimize the impact of potential floods and protect local communities. By investing in oued and canal dredging, the region hopes to reduce the risks associated with winter precipitation and ensure a safer environment for residents.
The ongoing projects in Manouba demonstrate the region's commitment to proactive measures against flood risks. With a significant portion of the project already completed, the region is on track to achieve its objectives and enhance its resilience to climate-related challenges.
Key points
- The project has achieved 40% progress, with 15 kilometers of critical points already treated.
- A total budget of 360,000 dinars has been allocated to the project, which covers a distance of 40 kilometers.
- Additional projects are planned, including a new tender for 15 kilometers of river and watercourse dredging.
