Ibri – Residents in various wilayats of Dhahirah have begun constructing groundwater recharge dams in coordination with Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, as part of a community partnership project aimed at enhancing groundwater reserves and ensuring the sustainability of water resources for future generations. These efforts reflect growing community awareness of the importance of water resource management.

With the ministry continuing work to enhance water security in Dhahirah, 18 private dams have been built through community partnerships – funded by local residents and the ministry – to date. These embody the integrated efforts of the community and government in water resource management.

Mubarak bin Salem al Jabri, Director of Water Resources Department at Directorate General of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources in Dhahirah, informed that work is currently underway to implement seven new groundwater recharge dams through community partnership across the governorate – three dams in the wilayat of Ibri, three in Yanqul and one in Dhank. The ministry is contributing 20% of the project cost, while residents bear the remaining.

According to Jabri, the dams are a key element in improving water availability by strengthening wells and aflaj, which enhances agricultural productivity and provides water in a sustainable manner to meet community needs.

He added that maintenance work on eight existing dams in the governorate was completed this year to ensure their continued efficiency and ability to absorb seasonal rainwater.

Jabri added that Dhahirah currently has 36 dams for groundwater recharge and flood protection – 18 government-run dams and 18 private dams (community partnerships). He pointed out that these dams are a fundamental pillar in supporting water security and water resources infrastructure, and achieving sustainable agricultural development in the governorate.