Ibri – Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources (MAFWR) in Dhahirah completed maintenance and rehabilitation of 18 aflaj during the first half of 2025.

This formed part of ongoing efforts to preserve traditional irrigation systems and support the objectives of Oman Vision 2040 in promoting sustainable water management.

The rehabilitated aflaj are located in the wilayats of Ibri, Dhank and Yanqul. Undertaken by the ministry’s directorate in the governorate, the work involved cleaning channels of sediment, repairing cracked walls and damaged distribution lines, improving water flow, reducing losses, and reinforcing channels with suitable materials. Some channels were roofed to conserve water, while new protected routes and alternative pathways were established to avoid wadi crossings.

MAFWR stated that it is working to secure sustainable water resources, safeguard aflaj as part of the sultanate’s cultural heritage, and improve the equitable distribution of water to meet the needs of farmers and local communities. These efforts are expected to boost agricultural production and contribute to national food security.

The completion of these works reflects Oman’s continued commitment to preserve its heritage and advance sustainable resource management, the ministry said.

Dhahirah is home to a total of 560 aflaj. Through these restoration efforts, the ministry aims to strengthen the water sector and assist farmers in the sultanate in achieving water security.

Regarded as one of the principal traditional irrigation systems, aflaj have been relied upon by Omanis for generations. Across the country, there are 4,112 aflaj, with types varying according to local geology and hydrology.