In a landscape where water scarcity is a pressing concern, particularly in Egypt’s arid and semi-arid regions, a recent study sheds light on innovative strategies to harness surface water resources. Conducted by Abdelfattah Elsayed Elsheikh from the Hydrology Department at the Desert Research Center in Cairo, the research focuses on the Gebel El Sibai watershed, an area that has long grappled with the challenges of limited water supply and the looming threats of climate change.
The study employs advanced GIS and HEC-HMS modeling techniques to assess the potential for rainwater and flood harvesting in five hydrographic basins: Wadi Esel, Wadi Sharm El Bahari, Wadi Sharm El Qibli, Wadi Wizer, and Wadi Umm Gheig. Elsheikh emphasizes the importance of these findings, stating, “Maximizing the utilization of available water sources is not just essential for survival but also for enhancing the resilience of local communities, particularly the Bedouins who depend heavily on these resources.”
The research indicates that rainfall in the region varies significantly, with the highest recorded storm reaching 84 mm, expected to occur every 42 years. This variability highlights the critical need for effective water management practices. The study reveals that Wadi Umm Gheig has the greatest flood volume potential, with an impressive capacity to collect about 12 million cubic meters of water during a 15 mm rainfall event. In contrast, Wadi Sharm El Bahari presents the lowest priority for flooding, indicating a diverse range of flood risk across the different basins.
To capitalize on this surface water potential, the study proposes the construction of seven storage dams. These dams are designed to enhance water collection and storage, a crucial step in addressing the annual water deficit of approximately seven billion cubic meters that Egypt faces. “The implementation of controlled structures for surface water management is vital for the sustainability of these basins,” Elsheikh noted, highlighting the commercial implications for the water, sanitation, and drainage sectors.
The findings from this research could pave the way for sustainable water management practices in arid regions, potentially transforming the landscape for local agriculture, biodiversity, and community resilience. As water scarcity continues to threaten livelihoods, the insights gained from this study could inform policies that promote effective floodwater harvesting and resource allocation, ultimately benefiting both the environment and the economy.
Published in the journal ‘Water’, this research not only contributes to the academic discourse on water management but also holds commercial promise for the water sector. For further insights into the work of Abdelfattah Elsayed Elsheikh, you can visit the website of the Desert Research Center at lead_author_affiliation.
