Renovation work under way on two water stations in Karak — ministry

AMMAN — Rehabilitation work is under way on Karak Governorate’s two main pumping stations, which are expected begin operating in October this year, according to an official at the Ministry of Water and Irrigation.

The rehabilitation of the two pumping stations will cost over JD10 million and water supply to the southern town is expected to improve once the two facilities are revamped and operative, the official said.

The ministry is constructing a 2,000-cubic-metre water reservoir at the Sultani Pumping Station and the projects also include rehabilitating and improving the station’s pumps as well as extending new main pipelines, according to Water Ministry Spokesperson Omar Salameh.

“The Sultani Pumping Station is being revamped at a cost of over JD6 million. The station is one of the main facilities supplying Karak with water, therefore, once rehabilitation is completed, water services will improve for the next 10 years,” Water Minister Hazem Nasser said in a statement issued by the ministry.

The ministry is also rehabilitating the Lajjoun Water Station in Karak, and a 22-kilometre pipe is being constructed to transfer water from the Lajjoun wells to the station, Salameh said.

“The new water carrier will cost JD3 million,” he added, noting that new pumps have been installed at the Lajjoun Water Station.

Salameh also revealed plans to rehabilitate wells in Qatraneh and Lajoun in Karak.

“Rehabilitation and development of the two water stations in Karak are expected to be completed by October this year. The two projects will develop and improve water supply efficiency in Karak and reduce water loss as well,” he underscored.

Situated 120 kilometres south of Amman, Karak has a population of 170,000, according to the Department of Statistics. The governorate is home to several of the country’s main wells, streams and dams.

Water per capita in the governorate stands at 165 litres per day, according to the ministry, which described the amount as above average. 

However, 60 per cent of the supplied water is lost through leakage due to violations and deteriorated water networks, pipes and pumping stations.