Severe Water Shortage Threatens Agriculture in Central Arava Region
The Central Arava region in Israel is facing a severe water crisis, with local farmers struggling to secure enough irrigation water amid growing shortages. Demand for water exceeds supply, and some agricultural communities report irregular irrigation, risking crop damage. At a recent meeting involving farmers, the regional council, and Mekorot water company, officials acknowledged that a solution remains distant.
Currently, water distribution is allocated based on the number of farms in each settlement, coordinated with Mekorot. For example, in the moshav Paran, the daily water quota per farm is capped at 230 cubic meters. Due to high consumption, the local committee is considering reducing quotas and has implemented group-based irrigation to manage limited resources. The regional water deficit is estimated at about 6,000 cubic meters per day, with the crisis expected to last at least until mid-August.
Ofer Gur, chairman of the Central Arava Agricultural Committee, reported that July’s water demand is around 134,000 cubic meters daily, while only 127,000 cubic meters are supplied, creating a daily shortfall of approximately 7,000 cubic meters. Veteran farmer Hami Barkan described the unprecedented situation, noting four empty reservoirs and the need to temporarily shut off water in the afternoons to manage the system. He warned that key crops like dates and upcoming pepper plantings are at risk, with young plants especially vulnerable to heat and water scarcity.
Despite Mekorot’s efforts, the problem persists. Plans include activating additional wells, some located in neighboring Jordan. A recent meeting with the Agriculture and Energy ministers, the Water Authority director, and Mekorot executives promised immediate assistance to increase water supply. However, the Water Authority confirmed that reservoirs emptied by late May due to prolonged well malfunctions and delayed security coordination have exacerbated the crisis.
Local residents emphasize that although the Central Arava was connected to the national water system years ago, it does not meet all agricultural needs. The Water Authority aims to boost supply from the national system in the coming weeks while pursuing long-term infrastructure improvements to enhance water production and delivery to the region.
