MUSCAT: Driven by its vision to become a leading provider of water management solutions, Nama Water Services has activated its emergency plan in response to the recent Al Mateer depression. This proactive measure ensures continued water services for governorates affected by the heavy rains. The move reflects the company’s commitment to sustainable water management and the well-being of Oman's communities.
Eng Ahmed bin Mubarak al Araimi, Acting Water and Wastewater Operations and Maintenance General Manager said: “Quick action under the company's emergency plan ensured uninterrupted water supply to residents during the recent low-pressure weather conditions. Despite challenges to distribution networks, residents continued to receive potable water thanks to the successful activation of these protocols.”
Al Araimi, outlined the company's proactive measures to ensure water supplies and wastewater services remain uninterrupted. "Leveraging past experience and technical expertise, our crisis management team has activated the emergency plan. This plan ensures key water tanks are filled, providing a 48-hour buffer in case of disruptions to pumping operations."
Al Araimi elaborated "Real-time monitoring of water levels and pumping activity is ongoing through the National Water Monitoring and Control Centre. Additionally, emergency wells have been activated, with dedicated water quality teams guaranteeing water safety. Water tankers stand ready for deployment to address potential shortages or service disruptions reported across governorates." These actions demonstrate the company's commitment to providing reliable water services to its subscribers during any unforeseen circumstances.
Elaborating on the efforts exerted by the company he added: “Nama Water Services implemented a comprehensive pre-emptive plan in anticipation of the adverse weather conditions, including, engaging with contractors, including plants operators, associated maintenance personnel, and project contractors, to establish precautionary measures safeguarding facilities, plants, and excavations, prioritizing public safety. Additionally, the company issued informative and cautionary messages to all company staff, disseminating updates on the evolving weather situation in alignment with directives from the Civil Aviation Authority and pertinent authorities, emphasising safety protocols at work sites. Nama Water Services has also liaised with relevant entities to rehabilitate roads impacted by soil erosion around reservoirs.”
Commenting on the impact of weather conditions on the company's operations and assets, Al Araimi stated: "A number of the company's assets were affected by floods and heavy rains despite the precautionary measures taken. A break occurred in the water line feeding the main reservoir in Wadi Bani Khalid, which was promptly addressed by the operations and maintenance teams. Additionally, several breaks occurred in the distribution networks in Mudhaibi Wilayat and several other wilayats. Emergency wells were activated in some wilayats after taking water samples and ensuring their compliance with the approved specifications and standards for drinking water."
Al Arimi added that the sewage treatment plant in Wilayat of Suhar was affected and its operations were suspended due to the flooding. However, the company's efforts were successful in bringing the plant back online within less than 6 hours of its shutdown.
Al Araimi concluded by expressing his gratitude to the company's employees for their continuous efforts to ensure the uninterrupted provision of water services. He further extended his appreciation to the subscribers for their water conservation efforts, which play a vital role in ensuring uninterrupted service.
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