Reinforcement Works Begin at Al-Siha Dam in Southern Aleppo
Teams from the Ministry of Emergency and Disaster Management, in coordination with relevant authorities in Aleppo province, have commenced a series of proactive measures to reinforce the earthen embankments surrounding the Al-Siha Dam in the southern Aleppo countryside. The initiative is part of broader preparations for the upcoming rainy season, aimed at minimizing the risk of flooding and safeguarding local villages and surrounding agricultural lands.
Faisal Mohammed Ali, the operations commander at the Aleppo Directorate of Emergency and Disaster Management, explained that the ongoing work is focused on repairing breaches and damage sustained by the embankments over the past year. He noted that the reinforcement and strengthening operations cover a distance of approximately 50 kilometers. These efforts are being conducted alongside the rehabilitation of 12 kilometers of agricultural roads, which are essential for ensuring access to these areas when necessary. Additionally, the project includes clearing about 200 kilometers of the Queiq River and its tributaries to improve water drainage capacity and prevent water accumulation.
Rahaf Jawaher, the engineer overseeing the project, stated that the plan also incorporates preventative measures to shield the embankments from wave impact during the spring, as well as the rehabilitation of 10 water culverts along the river channel. Jawaher highlighted the logistical challenges posed by the region’s damp and clay-like soil, which complicates the movement of machinery. Nevertheless, crews are continuing their efforts to complete the required tasks before weather conditions deteriorate, with the goal of preventing a recurrence of the significant damage experienced in the area in previous years.
These actions serve as a direct response to the losses suffered by farmers and residents in the southern Aleppo countryside last season. In March, high water levels led to a partial collapse of the earthen embankment, which resulted in the flooding of approximately 600 hectares of farmland and posed a direct threat to residential homes. The Ministry of Emergency and Disaster Management had previously announced a comprehensive proactive plan for the region, which officially began at the start of October. The project includes restoring water infrastructure and strengthening small dams to ensure the safety of local communities and protect their agricultural lands.
Local residents have emphasized the importance of these steps, expressing hope that the measures will effectively mitigate the impact of heavy rains and potential flooding. They stressed the need for a secure environment for farmers who rely on these lands for their livelihoods, particularly with winter approaching and increased forecasts for heavy rainfall in the Queiq River basin.
Source: Syria Focus Arabic
