The Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA) has constructed a retention dam in the Wadi al-Muqarr area – Wadi Musa, with the aim of reducing the risks of flash floods and improving water resource management in the region. The project was implemented in cooperation with Mercy Corps, with support from the Zurich Foundation and the Swiss Embassy in Jordan.
اضافة اعلان
Dr. Fatima Al-Hilalat, Commissioner for Sustainable Development at the PDTRA, stated that the dam represents a model of effective partnership between national institutions and international organizations to support natural resource management and strengthen community resilience to climate impacts in areas most vulnerable to natural disasters. She also emphasized the importance of protecting the region’s biodiversity, which is often the most affected during floods.
Eng. Mohammad Al-Habahbeh, Commissioner of Infrastructure and Investment at the PDTRA, explained that the dam’s construction is part of the authority’s efforts to protect vital infrastructure in Wadi Musa and surrounding areas from flash floods. He noted that such projects enhance the efficiency of water drainage systems, reduce damage to roads, public facilities, and tourist sites, and contribute to the sustainability of development across the region.
On behalf of the Swiss Embassy in Jordan, Eng. Alaa Al-Qaisi underscored the importance of floodwater management projects in Jordan and the value of working jointly with national partners to develop sustainable solutions that protect both communities and natural resources.
The dam’s implementation falls under the “Nature Project: Enhancing Community Resilience to Climate Change Impacts,” particularly in flood-prone areas. The new retention dam will help slow down water flow during floods, protect public and private property, and mitigate potential damage to Petra’s archaeological and tourist sites.
Candice Brancho, Project Director at Mercy Corps, highlighted the importance of continuous cooperation with government institutions in water management and climate adaptation efforts. She added, “Through these projects, we work with our partners to deliver evidence-based, community-led solutions that create long-term positive impacts for both people and the environment.”
It is worth noting that the Nature Project – “Building Community Resilience and Response to Climate Change” is implemented by Mercy Corps Jordan, with support from the Zurich Foundation and the Swiss Embassy. The project aims to strengthen communities’ ability to adapt to climate change, floods, and heatwaves through sustainable, locally driven solutions.
