SALALAH, JULY 8
The hydrometric network of monitoring stations, distributed across the Sultanate of Oman, is being expanded and modernized to help strengthen national preparedness against two alternating threats: paucity of rainfall, on the one hand, and surface runoff during adverse weather events, on the other.
According to a senior official, the potential impacts of climate change have also necessitated an upgrade of Oman integrated network of monitoring stations.
In an interview with the Observer, Eng Ali Bait Said, Director of the Water Resources Department in the Governorate of Dhofar, said the Omani government places great importance on the processes of monitoring and recording rainfall and surface runoff quantities through an updated and integrated hydrometric network of monitoring stations distributed across the country.
Monitoring and recording rainfall and surface runoff quantities was particularly imperative in light of the climatic changes facing the Sultanate of Oman and the scarcity of rainfall in certain seasons, he noted.
The hydrometric monitoring network affiliated with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources comprises a number of stations spread across all the governorates of Oman. Rainfall and wadi flow stations operate remotely, relying on modern devices to measure rainfall and wadi flow quantities and send the data immediately to the control centre.
In Dhofar Governorate, the Ministry is implementing a project to modernize the water resources monitoring system, said Eng Ali Bait Said. It will comprise of 57 stations to measure the amount of rain and 12 stations to measure water flows in wadis. These will be integrated with the remote monitoring system in Dhofar Governorate.
Specialised teams in the Water Resources Monitoring Department operate and maintain these stations, ensuring the data is reviewed and verified for accuracy, he said.
According to the official, the importance of rainfall and surface runoff monitoring extends beyond just knowing the quantities, encompassing numerous benefits for various sectors. It enables, for example, the proper planning and design of development projects, such as dams, irrigation networks, and infrastructure, aligning with Oman’s water needs.
Additionally, the data helps in assessing the available water quantities and distributing them equitably across different uses, including drinking, irrigation, and industry.
Furthermore, the monitoring data is used to predict floods and identify vulnerable areas, enabling the implementation of necessary measures to mitigate their impact. It is also utilised in studying weather and climate patterns, developing weather forecasting models, and understanding climate changes.
Crucially, it also contributes to public awareness about the significance of preserving water resources and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
“Monitoring and recording rainfall and surface runoff quantities is a fundamental pillar to ensuring the security and stability of Oman’s water resources and achieving sustainable development across various fields,” said the official.
Moreover, the precise data provided by the hydrometric monitoring network enables various governmental and private entities to make informed decisions, contributing to building a better future for the coming generations, he added.
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