Jordanian measures to deal with water shortages

Jordanian Water Minister Karnel Mahadin has announced short and long-term programs to deal with all water challenges in order withstand drought.

In a press conference he held in Amman on Sunday, the Jordanian minister said this plan calls for drilling, operating and treating water sources in all parts of the kingdom, adding that a program for guidance in water consumption by citizens will be also embarked upon.

Mahadin added that most water sources in Jordan rely on rainfall, noting that the precipitation average for this year reached 35% of its annual average.

The concern raised in Jordan over the decrease in precipitation has increased following Israel's announcement on March 14 that it will not be able this year to provide Jordan with the amount of 50 million cubic meters of water as called for in the peace agreement signed between the two countries in 1994. Jordan announced total rejection of any reduction in the amount of water.

According to official figures, the Jordanian population is increasing at 3.5% per year and will be by the year 2000 in need of 1.25 billion cubic meters to cover its water requirements, while its actual water resource capacity is 960 million cubic meters.