Al Khabah Al Zarka in the village of Al Bada’ah is trending in social media after the recent rains and many liken it to Hawiyat Najm or the sink hole in the Wilayat of Qurayat. The pool occupies an area of more than 1,000 square metres. Recent rains have filled the pool set against the majestic mountains.
The rainfall, which lasted for several weeks, led to overflowing of Wadis. The rains have recharged aflaj and artesian wells that bode well for the agricultural crops. The village of Al Bada’ah received a large share of the water that flowed into Wadi Al Huqain in the Wilayat of Al Rustaq. Whoever visits the village today will notice the abundance of water in this small village nestled among the mountains.
This pool is surrounded by various trees including date palm, mango, lemon and other native trees and plants. The residents of this small village are also interested in planting henna and alfalfa trees and types of vegetables such as carrots, garlic, onions, radishes and others. All of these agricultural produce find its way to the Al Rustaq markets and the markets in the neighbouring wilayats.
This unique site attracts tourists, especially after the pond is filled with water, which gives a beautiful aesthetic view to this remote village.
"We expect more tourists here for photography and mountain climbing. There are those who liken this pond to Hawiyat Najm (The Sink Hole). Visitors must be carefull as the soil on the edges of the pond are loose and may collapse any time, especially after rainfall. So, everyone must be careful as neither safety measures nor rescue team are available. One should avoid diving in this very deep pool. Previously, this pool was not known to tourists, but after the spread of pond's photos in the social media, many are flocking to see it real time," locals told the Observer.
For trekking enthusiasts, there is beaten track to explore the mountains near the village. This path leads to the mountain heights where one can see the panoramic view of the village. The tourists must adhere to wearing modest clothes, because access to this water pond requires them to walk through the farms owned by the people of the village.
The pond is also a watering hole for wild animals and birds, which in turn maintains the biodiversity of the village.
"A lot of wild animals flock to this village including foxes and deer, and there are dozens of species of birds, the most important of which are sparrow, Indian roller and the bulbul. Some of the villagers are interested in raising honey bees," villagers said.
TEXT & PHOTOS BY YAHYA AL SALMANI
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