Water Resources Planning and Development in Jordan - Problems - Future Scenarios - Recommendations

"Pressured by the U.N. imposed Iraqi embargo, Jordan also faces the worst water crisis in the Middle East. Water availability is estimated at [240] cubic meters per capita per year vis-a-vis the generally recognized 1,000 cubic meter poverty line. [To meet growing demand, ... are] overpumping groundwater aquifers causing adverse environmental impacts. Surface water resources are only 40% utilized, and further developmental is fraught with political and financial concerns. This paper places the water problems in Jordan and their socio-economic impacts in perspective. Future scenarios and recommended solutions are presented in an attempt to reconcile future water supply and demand imbalances. An integrated planning and management approach is proposed where optimal resource development opportunities can be identified to improve the overall well-being of the Nation. This approach could make significant contributions to the effectiveness and efficiency of the water resources systems in Jordan. The opinions expressed in this paper are strictly those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of any government or organization."--Abstract page