Facing an unprecedented water shortage, the Litani National Authority has sounded the alarm and called for rigorous and cooperative management of water resources.
In a statement, the Authority warned of a dramatic drop in water levels in the Qasmiyé–Ras el-Aïn irrigation project, which supplies the regions of Saida and Tyre.
According to the Authority, the flow of the Litani River has decreased by nearly 50% compared to last year. This alarming decline is due to several combined factors: a rainfall deficit of around 30%, partial drying up of springs and groundwater, and increased evaporation caused by exceptionally high temperatures.
In this tense context, the Authority is urging subscribers and farmers in the affected areas to closely cooperate with water distribution teams and local agricultural committees. The aim is to coordinate volume allocation by region to ensure fair, rational, and efficient water management.
It also stressed the importance of strictly adhering to irrigation schedules, both in terms of timing and the quantity allocated to each user. Any excess usage could further destabilize an already overburdened system.
Furthermore, discharging residual water into the sea or drainage outlets after irrigation is strictly prohibited. These volumes must be reused on agricultural land to minimize losses during this critical period.
The Authority concluded with a call for collective responsibility. Reducing waste and optimizing water usage are now essential to preserve the agricultural season, support national food security, and ensure the sustainability of water resources.
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