Karak: Minister of Local Administration Walid Masri on Wednesday emphasized the necessity for advanced and sustainable engineering solutions to rehabilitate infrastructure damaged by recent heavy rains, particularly in Karak, to protect lives and property.
According to Jordan News Agency, during a field visit to Karak Governorate, Masri highlighted that the rainfall levels, reaching approximately 70 millimeters per hour, are unprecedented in Jordan. This situation poses significant challenges to the existing infrastructure, stressing the urgency to rehabilitate drainage networks and infrastructure to adapt to new climate realities.
Masri noted that conventional infrastructure is not designed to handle such intense rainfall, necessitating immediate temporary measures to address the repercussions, along with the development and implementation of permanent, sustainable engineering solutions.
He called for the unification of efforts by national institutions to rehabilitate affected areas, acknowledging the increasing impacts of climate change. Notably, parts of the governorate experienced exceptionally heavy rainfall over short periods.
Masri also underscored the importance of restoring the damaged section of the Karak Castle wall to prevent further deterioration. He advocated for a comprehensive plan to preserve the castle and archaeological sites, rehabilitate heritage buildings, and revitalize the streets of Old Karak. These efforts align with directives from His Majesty King Abdullah II to develop an integrated plan for preserving the castle and revitalizing the old city.
The minister warned against construction within floodplains and wadis, urging intensified community awareness efforts and closer cooperation with citizens to prevent future violations. He emphasized the importance of identifying safe and appropriate solutions for existing buildings in vulnerable areas.
Specialized technical teams have been directed, in coordination with relevant authorities and the Governor of Karak, to prepare detailed engineering reports to accurately assess the damage and develop immediate, medium-term, and long-term remediation plans.
Governor of Karak Qablan Sharif stated that a comprehensive report will be prepared in collaboration with all relevant entities and submitted to the government. This report will detail the damage and outline short- and long-term corrective measures.
During the tour, which included areas within Greater Karak, Mu'tah, Mazar, and Ay municipalities, Masri engaged with citizens, listened to their concerns, and received briefings on measures taken during the recent weather conditions. The discussions also explored mechanisms for developing sustainable solutions to address the impacts of climate change and recurrent heavy rainfall over short periods.