Egypt: Lands using drainage water

More than 13 villages in Nile Delta Gharbeya governorate have been found to be using untreated drainage water for irrigating fields as well as for fish farming

The Kalnabeya vent is believed to contain sewage water used on farms that was polluted by industrial waste originating from greater Mahalla factories years ago.

"Lands irrigated with untreated drainage water exceed 10,000 feddans in some villages of the governorate," according to sources, who added that people have been using irrigation machines to lift water from the vent carrying chemicals and causing diseases.

Farmers explain they have become dependent on the vent because they only have access to clean water a few days a week. They accuse governorate officials and the irrigation directorate of neglecting to provide treated water to them regularly. The farmers also say they are sometimes out of water for long periods of time, causing dirty water to stagnate in canals.

In response, Abdel Hameed el-Shennawi, the governor of Gharbeya, has announced his plan to form a committee from officials in the city council, agriculture and irrigation directorates to inspect these lands.

"The committee ascertained that the lands [using polluted water] are limited," he said. "One (polluted) vent was decided to be blocked. But the Kalnabeya vent (to remain) for agricultural, and does not have any industrial, waste." The governor also said fish farming with the water was not widespread.