Significant Progress in Bechar’s Water Transfer Project: 58% Completion Achieved

✏️ By: Dr. Hana Saada

Algiers, Algeria | July 19th, 2024 —Minister of Hydraulics Taha Derbal emphasized the continued importance of the water transfer project from the Guetrani catchment area to Bechar during his visit to the region. As of now, the project has reached a 58% completion rate, with full delivery scheduled for December.

Ongoing Work and Project Details

During his visit, Minister Derbal expressed satisfaction with the current progress of the project, which began in March 2024. He stressed the necessity of maintaining the current pace to ensure the project’s timely completion. Once operational, the project will secure and enhance potable water supply for the communities of Bechar, Kenadza, and Abadla, delivering 80,000 cubic meters per day from the same catchment area.

The project, with a total cost exceeding 32 billion dinars, includes the drilling and equipping of 26 wells, of which 12 have been completed and the rest are progressing with completion rates ranging from 42% to 80%. Additionally, the project involves the installation of a 213-kilometer pipeline, a 57-kilometer water collection network, and three major pumping stations. The completion of these components is expected to facilitate the initial water transfer tests by November.

New Projects and Infrastructure Enhancements

Minister Derbal also inaugurated a project for the drilling and equipping of ten new wells to support the water needs of the “Toumiat” industrial zone, which is set to house the Bechar steel complex. This complex is being developed to exploit the Gara-Djebilet iron ore deposit, with the first unit for iron ore concentrate production currently under construction by the National Iron and Steel Company (Feraal) and Tosyali Steel Complex of Bethioua.

This hydraulic project, costing over one billion dinars, will include a water tower with a 5,000 cubic meter capacity and is expected to be completed by early 2025.

Wastewater Treatment Facility

In addition to the water transfer project, Minister Derbal oversaw the operation of the new Bechar wastewater treatment plant (STEP), which represents a significant advancement for the region. This state-of-the-art facility, built at a cost of more than 4 billion dinars, has a treatment capacity of 55,000 cubic meters per day and is designed to handle the wastewater of a population of 386,000 by 2040. The plant features six basins, including three for purification, a pre-treatment station, and several other advanced components.

The treated wastewater will be used for agricultural irrigation on 1,200 hectares and will be reinjected into the Oued Bechar, ensuring minimal environmental impact. The facility is also aimed at preventing waterborne diseases, protecting the environment, and enhancing the local living conditions.

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