Water problems in Jordan

Water is a deficiency in many parts of the world. As well as in Umm El-Jimal, a small village in the north of Jordan. But already in ancient times, people could cover their daily water needs and those of their animals. This was possible due to extensive canal systems and large reservoirs. Through them, the rainwater, which flowed down from the nearby mountains in rare but strong rainfalls, could be saved.

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In these reservoirs, however, Bert de Vries sees the solution to the water problem. With the support of the local mayor, he wants to reactivate these channel systems, which are usually buried by sand. So far, a catch basin with the size of four swimming pools, has been successfully put back into operation. With the collected water, which can cover 10% of the water needs of the village, farmers cultivate their fields. However, it is questionable whether the water is suitable as drinking water. It is believed that the water is contaminated with heavy metals or other pollutants. Jordanian engineers are therefore currently studying the water quality. If the quality is good enough, a drinking water treatment plant is planned. Sometimes looking back in time helps to solve current problems.

Bert the vries next to the catch basin source