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Scientists discuss water management at meeting

SHARJAH - Over 200 scientists and experts from 25 countries are participating in a three-day international conference on "Water Resources - Technologies and Management in the Arab World," which was inaugurated by His Highness Dr Shaikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, at the University of Sharjah yesterday.

The conference has been organised by The Arab Science and Technology Foundation (ASTF), University of Sharjah and World Renewable Energy Network in collaboration with Sharjah Electricity and Water Authority (Sewa), Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (ISESCO) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Ismael Al Bishri, Chancellor of the University of Sharjah, said: "The forum will present various comprehensive studies and research in the field of water in order to find a solution to the problem of water scarcity by adopting modern technology. This in turn will contribute towards maintaining social, economic and political stability in the region and the whole world. Studies and research indicates that solutions to these problems are not restricted to technological aspects, but also to the management of water resources and specifying priorities of various water-consuming sectors."

"Since the water problem is an international issue, finding solutions for this problem should also take place at the international level where various topics pertaining to rationalising and controlling extravagant consumption are discussed," he said.

The common problem faced by majority of the Arab countries concerning lack of fresh water resources was highlighted by Professor Ali Al Sayegh, Chairman of the World Renewable Energy Network, who said that lack of potable water and low rainfall has forced many Arab countries to resort to seawater as a resource or to use the artesian water. Theses two water resources were very expensive and all the Arab countries needed to rationalise consumption, he said. "A major percentage of water consumed in the Arab world is used for cultivation purposes, and this indicates that the key solution to the water problem in many Arab countries is not only a matter of technology, but also relates to water management, strategic planning, identifying priorities among different sectors of consumers and reducing unproductive consumption."

Ali Al Numan, General Manager of Sharjah Electricity and Water Authority (Sewa), said Sewa was committed to offering people the best services and had started achieving remarkable progress in the area of desalination. "70 million gallons of water are desalinated daily in Sharjah and we have future plans within the coming two years to increase production to 95 million gallons daily in addition to increasing 10 million gallons of water daily in Khorfkhan, Kalba and Eastern region."