Oman announces plans to build dams to prevent flooding following deadly incidents

(MENAFN) Oman's government has announced a plan to construct three new dams in an effort to prevent devastating floods. Sultan Haitham issued three royal decrees on Tuesday for the construction of dams at Wadi Al Ansab in Muscat governorate, Wadi Tahwa in South Al Sharqiyah governorate, and Wadi Al Zuhaimi in North Al Batinah. These dams will aim to alleviate the effects of flooding, which have become more frequent in recent years and are a major concern in the sultanate.

The decrees have granted local authorities the power to acquire land if required under Oman's Public Utility Expropriation Law. Flooding in Oman's wadis has become a significant issue in recent years, particularly as they can fill up quickly and without warning during heavy thunderstorms. During the Eid Al Adha holidays last summer, 19 people lost their lives due to heavy rainfall that swept across most parts of Oman, leading to rapid waters in the wadis and high waves on beaches. A total of 40 people were rescued in different governorates during the stormy conditions that saw between 30 and 80 millimetres of rain falling in 24 hours of torrential rain, high winds, and dust storms.

The government's efforts to address flooding come after a series of devastating events. In January last year, six people lost their lives in Oman after heavy rainfall that began on New Year's Eve left several towns completely cut off. One man was found dead in his vehicle after attempting to cross a wadi in Samail province. Another victim "was drowned in a wadi in Liwa," according to reports.

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