Saada – SABA:
The Water Basin Committee of Saada held a meeting today, chaired by Governor Mohammed Awad, to discuss measures and proposals to safeguard groundwater and curb excessive well drilling.
The meeting, attended by Secretary-General of the Local Council Mohammed Al-Imad and Deputy Governors Saleh Aqab and Mohammed Baydan, reviewed ongoing efforts to implement rainwater harvesting projects and addressed the challenges and risks facing the water basin. Emphasis was placed on encouraging community involvement in implementing projects that support groundwater recharge.
Participants, including officials from the Water Resources Authority and the Agriculture Sector, stressed the need to halt new well drilling permits unless modern irrigation systems are used. They also proposed mobilizing financial resources and expanding community-led initiatives to implement high-priority water projects.
Governor Awad underscored the urgency of regulating groundwater use and prioritizing well drilling for essential agricultural crops like vegetables, fruits, and grains. He called for strict enforcement against qat-related well drilling and emphasized public awareness efforts to protect water resources.
He also highlighted the importance of completing the Falla and Khudair water reservoirs, noting their potential to support groundwater replenishment in Saada and surrounding areas. Cooperation between the Water Resources Authority and Agriculture Sector was deemed critical to protecting water assets.
The committee ultimately decided to prohibit unregulated well drilling, enforce penalties for violations, and work within legal frameworks to protect and sustainably manage Saada’s water reserves.
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