Expansion of North Aqaba Wastewater Treatment Plant

BACKGROUND

Jordan is one of the most water-scarce countries in the world. A rapidly growing population and changing climate strain the already shrinking water resources. Jordan’s water systems provide comprehensive service coverage throughout the Kingdom, but water supplies are not always constant. Aging infrastructure results in significant water loss. Jordan requires expansions and upgrades to water treatment plants, water distribution systems, sewer collection systems, and wastewater treatment plants including expansion of wastewater reuse. Infrastructure expansion will help the country cope with the growing demand for diminishing surface water and groundwater resources, and to strengthen Jordan’s water security.

PROJECT OVERVIEWS

The North Aqaba Wastewater Treatment plant was originally constructed in 1986 and expanded in 2005 with a grant from USAID. Under this project, USAID once again supported the expansion and rehabilitation of the North Aqaba Wastewater treatment plant to accommodate the sanitation needs of Aqaba’s growing population and enhance sanitation for residents of Aqaba Governorate. Through this project, USAID helped to construct new facilities and rehabilitate the existing wastewater treatment plant. The project increased the treatment capacity of the plant from 12,000m3/day to 40,000m3/day.

NOTEWORTHY ACHIEVEMENTS

• Construction to expand plant capacity to an average daily flow of 30,000m3/day.
   
• The plant was completed in November 2021, and 150,000 people in Aqaba Governorate are benefiting from safely managed sanitation services that prevent contamination of water resources and protect public health and the environment.
   
• This plant uses less energy and has a lower operating cost because of the plant’s use of solar panels and biogas produced through the wastewater treatment process.
   
• Properly treated wastewater now serves as an alternative water source for irrigation of public green spaces and for industrial use, relieving pressure on drinking water supplies for domestic uses.