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Morocco’s Ministry of Equipment and Water has announced an international open call for bids to conduct a comprehensive study on the sedimentation of major dams across the kingdom, with a budget of 7.66 million dirhams. This initiative aims to bolster water resource governance amidst a decline in storage capacity.
Assessing Sedimentation in Morocco’s Dams
The project, overseen by the Directorate of Water Research and Planning, tackles the sedimentation issue affecting key dam infrastructures. Bids will be opened on May 20, 2026, at the directorate’s headquarters in Agdal, Rabat. The initiative splits the overall budget into two phases: the first phase, estimated at 4.86 million dirhams, focuses on several vital dams including those at Oued Makhazine, Cherif El Idrissi, Nakhlah, Al Wahda, and Mansour Ad Dahabi. The second phase, allocated 2.80 million dirhams, will examine the dams at Ghess, Mohammed V, Oued Za, Michra Hamadi, and Hassan Al Dakhil.
Technical Study Requirements
The winning consultancy will be tasked with executing a detailed technical study that utilizes precise bathymetric and topographic surveys to gauge sediment accumulation levels in the dams. It will also assess the impact of this sedimentation on their storage capacity. The study entails creating digital terrain models using high-resolution point clouds, which will facilitate an accurate reconstruction of the dam beds and analysis of any changes over time.
Hydraulic calculations are essential to ascertain the relationships between water level, area, and volume, with comprehensive mapping required to include longitudinal and cross-sectional profiles, depth curves, and sediment distribution. Deliverables will be provided in various formats, such as topographical maps, satellite imagery, and digital models.
Comparative Analysis and Data Integration
Another critical aspect of the study involves a thorough comparison between current data and previous studies, analyzing the evolution and rate of sedimentation and its effects on dam performance. Final reports for each dam will include detailed graphs and maps to illustrate findings. Additionally, the study must produce a complete digital database that encompasses geographical coordinates, Geographic Information System (GIS) files, and all technical data utilized under the national projection system, enhancing data accuracy and supporting informed decision-making in water resource management.
Conclusion
This initiative is a crucial step in addressing Morocco’s pressing water resource challenges. As sedimentation diminishes storage capabilities, this study will not only provide essential insights for effective management but will also contribute to the sustainability of the nation’s water resources in an era of increasing scarcity.
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Morocco dams, water resource management, sedimentation study, hydraulic calculations, digital terrain models, GIS data, environmental assessment
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Morocco announces a 7.66 million dirham study to assess sedimentation in key dams, enhancing water resource governance amid capacity challenges.
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Morocco takes a proactive step to safeguard its water resources with a comprehensive study on sedimentation in major dams.
