The National Transport Project and its role in security

 

Water and food in the Kingdom

 

background:

 

Water scarcity is an urgent environmental crisis facing the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and threatening its future

 

Jordan, a country characterized by rugged deserts and ancient rivers, is now facing one of the most severe water shortages in the world. With rapid population expansion and the continuing pressures of climate change, water scarcity in Jordan has reached critical levels that have prompted the Jordanian government to search for innovative solutions to ensure the country's survival and prosperity.

 

The  National Red Sea Desalination Project is emerging as Jordan's ambitious answer to this existential threat.

 

This huge initiative represents a pioneering step in the Kingdom’s efforts to harness technology and international cooperation to secure a sustainable water future. By proposing to desalinate the Red Sea water and transport it over 450 kilometers to densely populated centers and dry agricultural lands in Jordan, the project aims not only to provide a lifeline to the people of Jordan, but also to set a standard for water scarcity solutions around the world.

 

This strategic step by Jordan is based on a stark fact: that Jordan is ranked among the countries with the lowest level of water availability per capita in the world. This scarcity is exacerbated by over-extraction of groundwater, inefficient use of water in agriculture, and the effects of regional conflicts that have led to further pressure on resources. The Kingdom's traditional water sources are no longer sufficient to meet the growing demand of its cities, industries, and farms, necessitating a radical rethink of water management policies and practices.

 

The national carrier project is more than just an engineering marvel; It is a manifestation of Jordan's determination to overcome its geographical and climatic adversity. The project includes the construction of state-of-the-art water desalination facilities capable of converting salty water in the Red Sea into fresh water that is then transported via a vast network of pipelines across the desert to cities and villages in Jordan.

 

The project aims to enhance water security in Jordan, and enable the Kingdom to meet the needs of its population, agriculture, and economy.

 

Beyond the immediate goal of increasing water supplies, the national carrier project holds the promise of revitalizing Jordan's agricultural sector, enhancing food security, and promoting economic development. This initiative is expected to provide a reliable source of water for irrigation purposes, thus supporting crop cultivation in arid areas and reducing Jordan's dependence on food imports.

 

Moreover, the project is expected to create thousands of job opportunities, from construction to operation and maintenance, injecting vitality into the Jordanian economy.

 

The national carrier project also represents a strategic pivot towards embracing public-private partnerships, as the Jordanian government seeks to collaborate with international financiers, technology experts and private sector participants. This collaborative approach underscores the Kingdom's commitment to leveraging global knowledge and resources to address its water crisis.

 

As Jordan embarks on the implementation of the national Red Sea desalination project, it is sending a clear message to the world about the critical importance of addressing water scarcity through innovation, collaboration, and sustainable practices.

 

This initiative not only aims to secure water and food security in Jordan, but also serves as a model for other countries grappling with similar challenges.

 

Through this project, Jordan aspires to transform its weakness into strength, paving the way for a future in which water scarcity no longer threatens its stability or hinders its development aspirations.

 

The conflict over water between Jordan and Israel:

The water conflict between Jordan and Israel is rooted in the broader context of regional disputes over limited water resources in the Middle East, where water is an essential and scarce commodity. This conflict, like many others in the region, is shaped by the geographic and climatic conditions of the region, historical treaties, and the political dynamics of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

 

Geographic and climatic context:

 

The Jordan River Basin is central to the water conflict between Jordan and Israel. This basin includes the Jordan River and its tributaries that flow through Lebanon, Syria, Israel, Jordan, and the Palestinian territories. The region is characterized by an arid to semi-arid climate, which leads to large variations in water availability and creates competition for water resources.

 

The roots of the conflict can be traced back to the early twentieth century when the Zionist movement began promoting Jewish settlement in Palestine, which led to increased demand and competition for the waters of the Jordan River. The conflict intensified after the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948 and the subsequent Arab-Israeli wars, leading to major territorial changes and population displacement.

 

1994 Peace Treaty:

 

An important landmark in addressing the conflict over water was the peace treaty signed between Jordan and Israel in 1994. This treaty included detailed provisions on water sharing and cooperation, recognition of Jordan's water rights in the Jordan River and Yarmouk River, and determining the allocation of water from Israel to Jordan. It also included provisions on the development of new water projects and conservation measures.

 

Current issues:

 

Despite the peace treaty, disputes over water allocation, use and management continue to emerge, reflecting broader tensions in the region. Issues such as water theft, the impact of climate change exacerbating water scarcity, and unilateral water infrastructure projects by Israel have been points of contention. Jordan's growing population and limited water resources are adding to the pressure on the situation.

 

The water conflict between Jordan and Israel cannot be viewed in isolation from the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict and regional politics. Water resources in the West Bank and Gaza Strip are still under controlThe impact on aquifers and access to the Jordan River are controversial issues in the peace process. In addition, regional cooperation and the role of international actors play a crucial role in managing and resolving water-related conflicts.

 

The conflict over water between Jordan and Israel is complex, affected by a combination of historical events, geopolitical considerations, and environmental challenges. Although the 1994 peace treaty provided a framework for cooperation and conflict resolution, the dynamic nature of the region's politics and the pressing issue of water scarcity means that water remains a critical and potentially controversial resource.

 

Water versus electricity agreement:

 

From Jordan's perspective, the decision to cancel the planned water and energy agreement with Israel is deeply intertwined with the broader context of regional politics, historical tensions, and the urgent need to address humanitarian concerns. The agreement, which was an important step towards strengthening the solution to the water crisis, was derailed due to the Zionist aggression against the people of Gaza.

 

Jordan's decision to halt the agreement came against the backdrop of its commitment to regional stability and the protection of Palestinian rights.

 

Jordan's move reflects a broader diplomatic principle that peace and cooperation agreements cannot be isolated from the overall context of regional politics and moral considerations.

 

The 1994 peace treaty between Jordan and Israel, which ended decades of conflict and established diplomatic relations, was the cornerstone of relative stability between the two countries. However, this foundation is constantly tested by the volatile dynamics of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, affecting all aspects of Jordanian-Israeli relations, including water and energy agreements.

 

Moreover, Jordan's position is a manifestation of its role as a major player in the Middle East, balancing its strategic interests with its historical and moral obligations. The kingdom has often positioned itself as a mediator and advocate for peace, supporting the two-state solution and Palestinian rights. Therefore, the cancellation of the Water and Energy Agreement is not just a reaction to a single event but a reflection of Jordan's broader foreign policy and its dedication to navigating the complex fabric of Middle Eastern politics with a principled approach.

 

From Jordan's perspective, canceling the water and energy agreement with Israel underscores the prioritization of humanitarian concerns and regional stability over bilateral cooperation deals. It highlights the complexity of Jordan's position in the Middle East, caught between the imperatives of addressing severe resource shortages and maintaining an unwavering commitment to peace and justice in the region. This decision, while a setback for Jordanian-Israeli cooperation, serves as a reminder of the interconnected nature of regional politics and the challenges of pursuing development and cooperation in light of ongoing conflict.

 

Water deficit in the Kingdom:

 

Water security is a critical aspect of global and national security, and includes the availability, access and management of water resources to meet the health, economic and environmental needs of populations. It involves ensuring sustainable access to sufficient quantities of acceptable quality water to sustain livelihoods, human well-being and socio-economic development, ensuring protection from water-borne pollution and water-related disasters, and maintaining ecosystems in a climate of peace and political stability.

 

Water security challenges in Jordan:

 

Jordan faces significant challenges in water security, making it one of the most water-scarce countries

 

In the world. These challenges are driven by a combination of factors:

 

Arid Climate: Jordan is located in a semi-arid region and receives limited annual rainfall, which restricts the availability of fresh water.

High population growth: The country has experienced rapid population growth, including a large influx of refugees, which has put additional pressure on its water resources.

Overexploitation of Aquifers: To meet increasing demand, Jordan has been extracting water from its aquifers faster than it can be replenished, leading to the depletion and degradation of these vital groundwater resources.

Limited Surface Water: Jordan has a few rivers and lakes, with the Jordan River being a major source. However, the availability of water in the river has decreased due to upstream diversion by neighboring countries.

Agricultural demand: Agriculture consumes a large proportion of Jordan's water supply, and there is an ongoing challenge to balance water use for food production and domestic and industrial needs.

Climate Change: The effects of climate change are exacerbating water scarcity in Jordan, with forecasts of more severe droughts and heatwaves, reducing water availability.

Water deficit in numbers:

 

Jordan's need for water is about 3 million cubic meters per day, with per capita consumption reaching 90 cubic metres, which is much less than the international water poverty line of 500 cubic meters per capita annually.

Projections indicate a deficit in the drinking water sector of approximately 45 million cubic meters in 2022, contributing to an overall water deficit exceeding 450 million cubic meters annually.

More than 90% of Jordan's low-income population is expected to face severe water insecurity by the end of the century, with per capita water access likely to decline to 60 cubic meters by 2040.

The Jordan River, a crucial water source for Jordan, loses 85% of its water to evaporation, highlighting the challenges Jordan faces in securing water resources.

Groundwater, which suffers from constant depletion and represents about 56% of water use in Jordan, remains vital for drinking and various other uses.

The construction of the Karama Dam in the Jordan Valley, with the aim of storing 55 million cubic meters of water for agriculture, along with extracting 100 million cubic meters of water from the Disi Basin at a cost of $970 million, illustrates Jordan's efforts to alleviate water shortages.

Jordan is one of the mostMiss countries suffer from water scarcity in the world, which makes every drop of water more expensive than oil in local terms.

Rainfall in Jordan has decreased by 20% in recent decades, affecting dams and groundwater recharge, which depend entirely on rainwater.

In 2021, many Jordanian dams dried up, with water volumes in others falling to less than 5% of their storage capacity, resulting in a decrease of about 80 million cubic meters in dam water stocks compared to the previous year for dams used for drinking purposes.

Six out of 17 large, small and medium-sized dams were declared dry in the fall of 2021, highlighting the country's water crisis.

The Jordanian Minister of Water and Irrigation stated that expanding the construction of dams is not a viable solution due to the inadequacy of the current number of dams in relation to rainfall rates.

Jordan has only 10% of the water needed for food self-sufficiency, with 1.1 billion cubic meters available compared to the need for 11 billion cubic meters annually for food production, underscoring the critical link between water and food security in the country.

 

Food security in Jordan:

 

Food security in Jordan is a pressing concern, largely due to the country's dry climate, limited water resources, and dependence on food imports. As a desert country with more than 90% of its land classified as arid or semi-arid, Jordan faces significant challenges in agricultural production. These environmental constraints, coupled with a growing population and regional instability, exacerbate food security issues in the country.

 

Jordan's dependence on food imports is notable, with estimates indicating that the country imports more than 90% of its food needs. This high dependence makes Jordan vulnerable to global market fluctuations and supply chain disruptions, which could lead to price volatility and affect the affordability and availability of food for its population. Although the agricultural sector contributes only a small portion of the country's GDP, it is crucial for the livelihood of a portion of the population and for the production of some basic foodstuffs.

 

6% of Jordan's population receives some form of assistance from the World Food Programme. Jordan, with a population of 10.9 million, has 70% of its olive trees planted through World Food Program (WFP) projects in partnership with the government (WFP).

 

Food Security Index Score: Jordan received a score of 8.8 on the 2020 Global Hunger Index, classifying it as a food secure country. However, this faces the challenge of high rates of poverty and unemployment, slow economic growth, and increasing costs of living (WFP).

 

Food insecurity for refugees: Mobile Vulnerability Analysis and Mapping (mVAM) conducted by WFP in June 2021 showed that 23.4% of refugees in Jordan are food insecure, with 60% vulnerable to food insecurity (WFP).

 

The impact of the Coronavirus on the economy and unemployment: The social and economic impact of the Coronavirus led to a major economic contraction, as the unemployment rate in Jordan reached 25% in the first quarter of 2021, and unemployment rates among youth reached 50%. The pandemic has exacerbated vulnerabilities, including food insecurity and lack of education (WFP, )

 

National carrier project:

 

The Jordanian National Water Carrier Project, also known as the Aqaba-Amman Water Desalination and Water Transfer Project, is a pivotal infrastructure project aimed at addressing severe water scarcity in Jordan, one of the country's most pressing challenges. With Jordan ranked as the second most water-scarce country in the world, the importance of this project cannot be overstated. It represents a major step towards ensuring water security for Jordan's growing population, which has been further stressed by the influx of refugees.

 

The project revolves around building a desalination plant on the southern shore of Aqaba, and benefiting from the water of the Red Sea. This initiative includes a comprehensive seawater abstraction system that meets stringent environmental standards to protect the marine ecosystem and ensure the quality of the water produced. The project's infrastructure is extensive, including pumping stations, reservoirs and a 450-kilometre pipeline designed to transport approximately 300 million cubic meters of desalinated water annually from Aqaba to Amman and other areas along its route.

 

Jordan's demographic and environmental realities underscore the urgent need for the National Water Carrier Project. The Kingdom faces massive population growth and the challenges of hosting a large number of refugees, pushing its water resources below the global water poverty line. The project is not just about alleviating current water stress, but is a forward-looking initiative aimed at securing a sustainable water supply for future generations.

 

It is a critical component of Jordan's broader water strategy, which also includes efforts to increase water use efficiency and reduce losses from leakage and illegal use.

 

The National Water Carrier Project is a testament to Jordan's proactive approach to leveraging technology and innovation to address its environmental challenges. By turning to desalination – a process that has been successfully employed in various parts of the world facing similar water scarcity issues – Jordan aims to create a reliable and safe water supply that can support the needs of its population as well as the demands of its agricultural and industrial sectors.

 

This initiative is a strategic priority for the Kingdom, reflecting its commitment to addressing the issue of water scarcity head-on. The project has received international recognition, winning the "Best Strategic Project 2019” award at the Infrastructure Leadership Forum in Malaga, Spain, where it competed with more than 100 global projects. Don't shed thisThe honor not only highlights the strategic importance of the project, but also places Jordan at the forefront of addressing the challenges of global water scarcity through innovative infrastructure projects.

 

The financial and logistical size of the National Water Carrier Project is large, with an estimated cost of $2.5 billion. It is among the largest infrastructure projects in Jordan's history, demonstrating the Kingdom's dedication to investing in sustainable solutions to the water crisis. The project is expected to be fully operational by 2027, marking an important milestone in Jordan's efforts to ensure water security and support its social and economic development.

 

The National Water Carrier Project represents a critical investment in Jordan's future, addressing both immediate and long-term water scarcity challenges. Emphasizes the importance of innovative solutions in addressing environmental issues and highlights Jordan's role

 

Conveyor mechanism:

 

Seawater withdrawal: Seawater is drawn from the Red Sea, while adhering to environmental standards to protect the marine ecosystem.

Water desalination: The drawn seawater is subjected to desalination at the plant located on the southern shore of Aqaba, which turns it into fresh water.

Pumping and storage stations: Desalinated water is then pumped into storage tanks through strategically located pumping stations to ensure consistent water pressure and supply.

Pipeline transportation: A 450-kilometre-long pipeline transports fresh water from Aqaba to various regions, including Amman and other governorates.

Distribution: The water reaches its destination where it is distributed to meet the drinking, agricultural and industrial needs of four million people in the Kingdom.

 

The impact of the national carrier project on environmental and food security:

 

Jordan's National Water Carrier Project represents an important step towards addressing the critical issue of water scarcity plaguing the nation. By leveraging advanced desalination technology to treat Red Sea water, the initiative aims to create a reliable water supply for various uses, including drinking, agriculture and industry. This endeavor is particularly critical for Jordan, a country characterized by limited water resources, which are increasingly strained by a growing population and the effects of climate change.

 

The implications of this project for food security are multifaceted and very beneficial:

 

Increased agricultural production: Providing desalinated water directly to agricultural areas can lead to a significant increase in agricultural productivity. With more water available for irrigation, farmers can cultivate larger areas and perhaps introduce a wider variety of crops. This increase in production is essential for a country like Jordan, where arable land and water supply are limiting factors. Enhanced agricultural productivity directly contributes to food security by increasing food availability within the country.

Reducing dependence on food imports: Jordan, like many countries with limited water resources, relies heavily on food imports to meet the needs of its population. By enhancing local agricultural production through the National Water Carrier Project, Jordan can reduce its dependence on imported food. This shift has the potential not only to improve food sovereignty, but also to enhance the resilience of the local food system against global supply chain disruptions and international market price volatility.

Supporting rural development: The project’s impact extends beyond direct agricultural benefits. By increasing the availability of water in rural areas, it lays the foundation for comprehensive rural development. This includes not only expanding agricultural activities, but also creating job opportunities within the agricultural sector and related industries. Rural development, supported by sustainable water and agricultural practices, can improve living conditions, economic stability and reduce urban migration pressures.

Moreover, the project embodies a strategic approach to sustainable development, in line with global goals aimed at ensuring water availability and sustainable water and sanitation management for all. By addressing the critical issue of water scarcity through innovation and sustainable practices, Jordan is setting a precedent for other countries facing similar challenges.

 

In conclusion, Jordan's National Water Carrier Project is more than just a water infrastructure endeavor; It is a comprehensive initiative aimed at securing the future of water and food in the country. Its success could serve as a model for other arid and semi-arid regions around the world, demonstrating the potential of technology and strategic planning in overcoming environmental and resource-based challenges.

 

General framework and international support:

 

The cornerstone of the project's financing strategy is the more than $2.2 billion in financing it has secured, showcasing an unprecedented level of investment in Jordan's water infrastructure. The International Finance Corporation plays a pivotal role, providing a major loan of up to $400 million. This investment not only confirms confidence in Jordan's ability to implement such a huge project, but also indicates a strong international commitment to supporting global water sustainability efforts. The financing package also includes contributions from various international donors and financial institutions, reflecting the global importance of the project and the collaborative effort to combat water scarcity.

 

Technical overview and implementation:

 

At the heart of the Jordanian National Water Carrier project is the innovative use of desalination technology. By taking advantage of the Red Sea's vast water resources, the project aims to desalinate water on an unprecedented scale, making it suitable for human consumption and agricultural use. The desalinated water will then be transported more than 300 kilometers to the capital, Amman, and other areas, representing a major engineering achievement. This will not only help alleviate the water shortageIt will also contribute to the country's long-term water security and resilience against climate change.

 

The project is divided into several main phases, including building a desalination plant in Aqaba, laying a pipeline network to transport water to Amman, and developing water distribution infrastructure throughout the country. In addition, the project includes components aimed at environmental protection and sustainable water resource management, ensuring that the benefits of the project exceed immediate water needs

 

Challenges and future trends:

 

Despite its many benefits, the project faces challenges, including the technical complexities of desalination and water transportation, managing environmental impacts, and the need for significant financial investments. However, the comprehensive planning and international support behind the project indicate a strong foundation for overcoming these obstacles.

 

Comprehensive environmental assessments were conducted to understand the potential environmental impacts of such a large-scale desalination and transportation project,

 

These assessments aim to reduce the environmental footprint of the project, particularly in terms of the desalination process and pipeline construction. The project incorporates the latest technologies to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions associated with water desalination, making it one of the most environmentally friendly initiatives of its kind.

 

Furthermore, the project plans include measures to sustainably manage the discharge of brine, a by-product of the desalination process, ensuring the protection of marine ecosystems. Careful consideration of environmental impacts underscores Jordan's commitment to balancing the urgent need for water with the need to protect natural resources and biodiversity.

 

The Jordanian National Water Carrier Project is expected to have profound social and economic impacts, directly benefiting millions of Jordanians. By securing reliable water supplies, the project will significantly improve living conditions, public health and food security. It will also have a multiplier effect on the economy, allowing the expansion of agricultural activities, supporting industrial development, and attracting new investments to the region.

 

Furthermore, the project is seen as a catalyst for regional cooperation on water issues, setting a precedent for transboundary water management and cooperation. By demonstrating the feasibility of large-scale desalination and water transportation initiatives, the Jordan project can inspire similar efforts in other water-scarce regions, contributing to global water sustainability and security.

 

Conclusion:

 

Jordan's National Water Carrier Project outlines a strategic response to the pressing challenges of water scarcity and food security faced by arid countries. By harnessing advanced desalination technology to harness the water of the Red Sea, this pioneering initiative promises to significantly enhance water availability in Jordan for drinking, agriculture and industry. The project stands as a beacon of innovation, with the aim of providing a sustainable solution to the growing demand on the country's limited water resources.

 

The expected impacts on food security are profound. By increasing the availability of water for agriculture, the project is expected to boost agricultural production, enabling expansion of cultivated land and diversification of crops. This increase in domestic food production is critical to reducing Jordan's dependence on food imports.

 

Thus enhancing national food sovereignty and economic stability. Moreover, the role of the initiative in supporting rural development cannot be overstated, as it promises to create new employment opportunities in agriculture, and enhance economic growth and community resilience in rural areas.

 

At its core, the National Water Carrier Project is more than just an infrastructure project; It is a comprehensive approach to addressing the intertwined issues of water scarcity and food insecurity. Its success could not only transform the Jordanian landscape, but also provide valuable insights and a replicable model for other countries grappling with similar challenges. This project underscores the importance of innovative and sustainable solutions in securing the future of water and food security on a global scale.

 

Prepared by: Nermeen Alzawghah - Jordanian masarat for Development and progress