Petra, Nov. 10 (Petra) -- The Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA) has completed the construction of a water collection dam in the Wadi Al-Maqar area of Wadi Musa, aimed at reducing flash flood risks and improving water resource management in the region. The project was carried out in cooperation with Mercy Corps, with financial and technical support from the Zurich Foundation and the Swiss Embassy in Jordan.
Fatima Al-Hilalat, Commissioner for Sustainable Development at PDTRA, described the project as a model of effective collaboration between national institutions and international organizations. She said the initiative strengthens natural resource management and enhances the resilience of local communities to climate-related impacts, particularly in areas most vulnerable to natural disasters. Al-Hilalat also highlighted the project’s role in protecting the region’s biodiversity, which is often the most affected during flash floods.
Mohammad Al-Habahbeh, Commissioner for Infrastructure and Investment, noted that the dam is part of the authority’s broader efforts to protect vital infrastructure in Wadi Musa and surrounding areas from the dangers of sudden flooding. He explained that the project contributes to improving water drainage efficiency, reducing damage to roads, public facilities, and tourist sites, and supporting the sustainability of development in the Petra region.
Representing the Swiss Embassy in Jordan, Alaa Al-Qaisi emphasized the importance of floodwater management projects in the country, stressing the value of joint work with national partners to develop sustainable solutions that protect both communities and natural ecosystems.
The dam’s construction forms part of the "Nature Project for Enhancing Community Resilience to Climate Change Impacts," which aims to help local communities adapt to extreme weather events, particularly floods. The new facility is expected to slow floodwaters, safeguard public and private properties, and minimize potential damage to Petra’s archaeological and tourism sites.
Candice Brancho, Project Director at Mercy Corps, underscored the importance of continued cooperation between humanitarian organizations and government institutions in managing water projects and addressing climate change. She said the organization works with partners to deliver evidence-based, community-driven solutions that create long-term benefits for both people and the environment.
The "Nature Project to Strengthen Community Resilience and Response to Climate Change" is implemented by Mercy Corps Jordan with support from the Zurich Foundation and the Swiss Embassy. It aims to enhance local adaptation to climate change, floods, and heatwaves through innovative, sustainable, and community-led approaches.
//Petra// RZ
