The Petra
Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA), in cooperation with Mercy
Corps through the Tabeaa project and with support from the Z Zurich Foundation
and the Embassy of Switzerland in Jordan, has constructed a storage dam Wadi
Al-Muqer, Wadi Musa. The project aims to reduce the risks of flash floods and
improve water resource management in the area.
اضافة اعلان
Dr. Fatima
Al-Hilalat, Commissioner of Sustainable Development at PDTRA, emphasized that
the construction of this 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 added that the dam
also helps protect the biodiversity found in valleys, which is among the most
affected during flood events.
Eng.
Mohammad Al-Habha, Commissioner of Infrastructure and Investment at PDTRA,
stated that the construction of this dam is part of the Authority’s efforts to
protect vital infrastructure in Wadi Musa and surrounding areas from the risks
of flash floods. He noted that such projects improve water flow management,
reduce damage to roads, public facilities, and tourist sites, and contribute to
enhancing sustainable development across the region.
Representing
the Embassy of Switzerland in Jordan, Eng. Alaa Al-Qaisi highlighted the
importance of floodwater management projects in Jordan and the value of joint
efforts with national partners to develop sustainable solutions that protect
both communities and natural resources.
The
construction of this storage dam is part of Tabeaa’s efforts to enhance the
resilience of local communities to the impacts of climate change, particularly
in flood prone areas. The new dam will help slow down water flow during flood
events, protect public and private property, and reduce potential damage to
Petra’s archaeological and tourism sites.
Ms. Candice
Branchoux, Director of Programs at Mercy Corps, emphasized the importance of
continued collaboration with government institutions in water management and
climate adaptation initiatives. She stated: “Through these projects, we work
with our partners to deliver evidence based, community-led solutions that
create long-term impact for both people and the environment.”
