Recharge of aquifers with reclaimed wastwater : a case for Saudi Arabia

Abstract EN

In recent years there has been an alarming depletion of groundwater resources in the aquifers of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia due to increasing agricultural and urban water requirements.

Efforts are being made to increase the use of reclaimed wastewater.

The sixth development plan envisages the use of 310 million cubic meters of reclaimed treated wastewater in the year 1998-1999.

Wastewater recharge is one of the most promising techniques available for reclaiming treated wastewater.

Expected water quality improvements and economic considerations strongly favor the undertaking of large scale recharge projects to replenish the depleting water tables in the Kingdom.

Alluvial aquifers and the outcrops of aquifers would be suitable sites for recharge.

The recharged water can be withdrawn to be used for inlgation and possibly for potable use.

Such use would be lawful from the Islamic viewpoint.