MUSCAT : The agreements, valued at a total of RO 621,363, form part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the water sector and restore the efficiency of Oman’s traditional irrigation systems.

The signing was held under the patronage of His Excellency Taher bin Mabkhout Al Junaibi, Governor of Al Dhahirah.

Of the 40 agreements, 35 are dedicated to the maintenance and rehabilitation of damaged aflaj at a total cost of RO 513,555. A further five agreements, worth RO 107,808, cover the drilling of auxiliary wells and related works for affected aflaj to improve water flows and ensure a sustainable supply to agricultural lands.

The agreements were signed on behalf of the Ministry by Engineer Amer bin Saif Al Barhi, Director General of Agricultural Wealth and Water Resources in Al Dhahirah Governorate, alongside representatives of the companies and institutions implementing the projects.

The projects are aimed at addressing damage caused by the Al Masarrat weather depression, which affected the Sultanate of Oman last March. The weather system damaged channels, waterways, water sources and auxiliary wells linked to several aflaj across the governorate.

Al Barhi said the Ministry places significant importance on the aflaj sector, recognising it both as part of Oman’s cultural heritage and as a key pillar of food and economic security.

He added that the rehabilitation works include repairing aflaj arms and channels, removing silt and debris, and drilling auxiliary wells to support the continued flow of water and meet the needs of farmers.

For all the latest news from Oman and GCC, follow us on Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn, like us on Facebook and subscribe to our YouTube page, which is updated daily.