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Ammon News - The Ministry of Water and Irrigation on Monday stated that the National Water Strategy 2023-2040 came to outline the government's objectives and plans in the water sector, aligning with the directives of His Majesty the King.

In a statement, the ministry indicated that the primary aim of the Strategy is to achieve water security and address various challenges, including water scarcity, population growth, climate change, and the need for additional water supply sources. By focusing on optimal water resource management, the strategy also seeks to strike a balance between water demand and availability while promoting sustainable national development.

"One of the main objectives of the Strategy is to reduce water loss by 2% annually, with a target of reaching a 25% reduction by 2040. This will be achieved through measures such as increasing energy efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing reliance on alternative energy sources. The strategy also aims to improve operations and maintenance practices, ensuring financial stability within the water sector, minimizing losses, and establishing long-term financial sustainability," the statement added.

Furthermore, the strategy highlights the importance of exploring non-traditional water sources to enhance and sustain the water supply. Projects like the National Water Carrier Project and significant expansions in wastewater treatment for irrigation purposes are key components of this effort. These initiatives aim to address the growing water deficit, improve supply efficiency for drinking water, and provide water for industrial, agricultural, and tourism sectors.

In addition to addressing immediate water-related challenges, the National Water Strategy also focuses on long-term considerations. It aims to tackle climate change impacts, reduce the depletion of groundwater, and restore the health of groundwater basins. The strategy emphasizes the importance of water sector governance and its interconnection with the environment, food security, and energy. By enabling the agricultural sector and ensuring water security, the strategy seeks to achieve sustainable development.

The statement further elaborates that the National Water Strategy (2023-2040) is centered around integrated water resource management. This approach entails safeguarding and preserving groundwater and surface water sources, along with strict enforcement of water usage and protection laws and regulations.

The strategy also emphasizes the significance of financial performance and sustainability, establishing a robust data system to support decision-making, and fostering innovation and technology adoption.

Additionally, it highlights enhancing energy and water efficiency, addressing climate change challenges, diversifying water sources, and promoting collaboration among various government entities, private sector organizations, civil society, academic institutions, and research bodies. It also aims to attract expertise, engage and empower youth, and provide scientific research opportunities in water and sanitation fields.

The National Water Strategy was approved by the Cabinet in March 2023, following a thorough examination and endorsement by the concerned committees.