Mafraq, Oct. 2 (Petra) – Umm al-Jimal Municipality has completed the first phase of the Wadi Umm al-Jimal Archaeological Canal Rehabilitation Project, a key initiative linking heritage preservation with water security.

Head of the Municipal Committee Mohammad Abu Alim told the Jordan News Agency (Petra) on Thursday that the initial phase covered the rehabilitation of 2 kilometers of the canal out of the 4-kilometer project. The effort is funded by the German Development Bank (KfW) in cooperation with the International Labor Organization (ILO).

Abu Alim noted that the project reflects the municipality’s commitment to safeguarding archaeological heritage while enhancing sustainable water resource management. He said the initiative has created more than 130 job opportunities for local community members over nine consecutive months.

He explained that the canal rehabilitation falls within the framework of Umm al-Jimal’s broader Water Harvesting Project, underscoring the dual objectives of reviving archaeological features and strengthening water security for the city and its ancient site. He expressed hope that work on the remaining canal sections will be completed to maximize the project’s impact.

The Umm al-Jimal archaeological site includes numerous pools and reservoirs, both carved and roofed, which historically served as vital systems for collecting and storing water in this desert region. These structures, essential for sustaining life in the ancient city due to its distance from natural water sources, remain prominent features of the site.

The pools and reservoirs, integrated with Nabataean rest houses and Byzantine churches, highlight the ingenuity of past civilizations in securing and utilizing water resources, forming an integral part of the city’s archaeological urban system.

//Petra// AJ