The Sharjah Electricity, Water, and Gas Authority (SEWA) is poised to embark on a transformative journey aimed at modernizing and securing the water infrastructure of the Emirate of Sharjah, announcing a comprehensive investment plan totaling AED 4 billion. This ambitious initiative underscores the authority’s commitment to ensuring water sustainability and resource efficiency in the face of burgeoning population growth and increasing demand for potable water.
A hallmark of SEWA’s strategic vision is the Al Hamriyah Independent Water Desalination Plant, a cutting-edge facility with the capacity to produce up to 90 million gallons of desalinated water daily. This significant enhancement in water production capacity is anticipated to substantially bolster the reliability of water supply not only within Sharjah but also in adjacent regions, thereby addressing both current and future demands.
Engineer Faisal Al Serkal, who serves as the Head of SEWA’s Water Department, provided insights into additional pivotal projects that will accompany the operation of the Al Hamriyah plant. The plans include the establishment of three advanced pumping stations and a network of nine water storage reservoirs, collectively holding a capacity of 180 million gallons. These reservoirs will be strategically positioned in Al Zubair, Al Badi’, and Al Burair, ensuring optimal water storage and distribution throughout the emirate’s expanding urban landscape.
To further enhance the efficacy of the water distribution system, SEWA is undertaking the construction of an extensive 245 kilometers of main water pipelines. This intricate network is designed to seamlessly integrate with the new infrastructure, facilitating efficient water distribution across Sharjah and enhancing overall service reliability.
Pipeline Network Expansion
A critical component of this expansive initiative is the ongoing construction of a major pipeline that links Al Houma to the Al Falaj station. This pipeline, with an impressive diameter of 1,600 mm and extending over 8 kilometers, represents a significant investment of approximately AED 105.5 million. The completion is anticipated by the end of 2025, at which point it will play a vital role in supporting the emirate’s water distribution capabilities.
Notably, this pipeline is part of a broader 77-kilometer transmission network that extends from the Al Hamriyah plant to Al Falaj station, encompassing a total investment of AED 645 million. This formidable infrastructure project reflects a commitment to not only meet the escalating demands of Sharjah’s population but also to future-proof the emirate’s water supply against emerging challenges.
The contracts for the construction of the additional reservoirs and pumping stations have been awarded to reputable contractors, with project costs estimated at AED 505 million for the Al Zubair facility, AED 460 million for Al Badi’, and AED 446.85 million for the Al Burair reservoirs. This investment showcases SEWA’s strategic approach to managing resources efficiently while ensuring the inclusion of robust infrastructure aligned with contemporary engineering standards.
The timeline set for the completion of this comprehensive program spans to the third quarter of 2027. When finalized, it is projected to deliver a robust and resilient water system capable of accommodating the emirate’s growing water demands, thereby promoting sustainability and protecting public health in the face of increasing urbanization and climate variability.
In summary, SEWA’s extensive efforts to modernize Sharjah’s water infrastructure represent a significant forward stride in the emirate’s quest for sustainable development. With a focus on advanced technology, strategic planning, and substantial financial commitment, SEWA is setting a benchmark that not only addresses current needs but anticipates future challenges in water supply management.
In conclusion, SEWA’s initiatives can be viewed as a model for other regions grappling with similar water management issues. As the effects of climate change continue to exert pressure on water resources globally, the strategies employed by SEWA provide critical insights into establishing resilient infrastructural frameworks that ensure water security.
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