Decentralized flow monitoring in Egypt
Date
2006-10
Authors
Azim, Ragab Abdel, author
Viala, Eric, author
U.S. Committee on Irrigation and Drainage, publisher
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Abstract
The equitable and accountable allocation of water resources is a critical step towards water use efficiency. This is especially true in Egypt where multiple and growing demands are competing for a limited water supply (Egypt's share of the Lake Nasser reservoir, behind the High Aswan Dam). The Egyptian per capita annual water share has in recent years decreased below the 1000 m3 threshold. Water distribution in Egypt strives to maintain optimal water levels in the main canals, high enough to ensure gravity supply of secondary and tertiary canals, while preventing bank overflow. The monitoring of flows is limited to main canals and critical locations at the national level to optimize water distribution. The MWRI has recently taken steps to simplify its structure by establishing Integrated Water Management Districts (IWMDs). These IWMDs are empowered with most water management responsibilities, notably monitoring water resources. The USAID-funded LIFE-IWRM Project has supported this effort through the procurement of equipment and the training of IWMD staff. Each of the newly established 27 IWMDs has now defined a flow monitoring network which includes the locations of main inflow and outflow structures. Discharge measurements are being carried out twice a month in each of these locations, while water levels and gate openings are recorded daily. All of these inflow and outflow structures have recently been calibrated, thus allowing IWMD managers to know the daily volumes of water being supplied to their district. This process of decentralized flow monitoring is a first step on the road from water distribution to water management. Reliable information on actual supplied volumes is essential and can then be compared to actual demands to improve water use efficiency.
Description
Presented at Ground water and surface water under stress: competition, interaction, solutions: a USCID water management conference on October 25-28, 2006 in Boise, Idaho.