Red Sea–Dead Sea Water Conveyance

Red Sea - Dead Sea Canal map

Red Sea–Dead Sea Water Conveyance

The Red Sea–Dead Sea Water Conveyance (RSDSWC) is a proposed project to address the declining water levels of the Dead Sea by transferring water from the Red Sea. The project aims to provide a sustainable solution to the environmental, economic, and social challenges posed by the shrinking Dead Sea.

Background

The Dead Sea, located at the lowest point on Earth's surface, has been receding at an alarming rate due to diversion of incoming water from the Jordan River and mineral extraction industries. The Red Sea–Dead Sea Water Conveyance project is seen as a potential remedy to this issue, as well as a means to foster regional cooperation among the bordering countries of Jordan, Israel, and the State of Palestine.

Project Description

The RSDSWC project involves the construction of a pipeline or canal to transport water from the Red Sea to the Dead Sea. The project is expected to include the following components:

• **Intake Facility**: Located at the Red Sea, this facility will draw seawater for conveyance.
• **Conveyance System**: A pipeline or canal approximately 180 kilometers long to transport the water.
• **Desalination Plant**: A facility to desalinate a portion of the seawater, providing potable water to the region.
• **Hydropower Plant**: Utilizing the elevation difference between the Red Sea and the Dead Sea to generate electricity.
• **Discharge Facility**: Where the remaining brine and seawater will be discharged into the Dead Sea.

Objectives

The primary objectives of the RSDSWC project are:

• **Environmental Restoration**: To stabilize and restore the water levels of the Dead Sea.
• **Water Supply**: To provide desalinated water to the surrounding regions, addressing water scarcity issues.
• **Energy Production**: To generate renewable energy through hydropower.
• **Regional Cooperation**: To promote peace and cooperation among Jordan, Israel, and the State of Palestine.

Challenges

The project faces several challenges, including:

• **Environmental Concerns**: Potential impacts on the unique ecosystem of the Dead Sea and the surrounding areas.
• **Economic Feasibility**: High costs associated with construction and maintenance.
• **Political and Diplomatic Issues**: Coordination and agreement among the involved countries.

Current Status

As of the latest updates, the RSDSWC project is in the planning and feasibility study stages. Various international organizations and governments are involved in assessing the project's viability and potential impacts.

See Also

• Dead Sea
• Red Sea
• Jordan River
• Desalination
• Hydropower
• Water scarcity