Salalah: The Directorate General of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources in Dhofar Governorate has successfully completed the maintenance and rehabilitation of three critical water springs-Kiley, Don, and Azghot-located deep within the valleys and mountain formations of the region. These efforts aim to preserve natural water sources, enhance their sustainability, and ensure they serve local communities despite the challenging field conditions marked by rugged terrain.
According to Oman News Agency, the Kiley spring, a significant freshwater source, is situated approximately seven kilometres from the A'downib area in the Wilayat of Salalah. The Don spring, located north of the Ain Kor waterfall site, requires a four-kilometre journey through challenging landscapes. Meanwhile, the Azghot spring in the Wilayat of Rakhyut lies about ten kilometres away along extremely rugged mountain paths, presenting additional challenges for rehabilitation efforts.
Eng. Ali bin Bakheet Beit Said, Director of the Water Resources Department, emphasized the importance of the Kiley spring, classified as a remote source. It plays a crucial role in providing water for valley travellers and livestock, supporting wildlife, and preserving the region's ecological balance. Maintenance work at the Kiley spring included site clearing, sediment and debris removal, construction of a permanent concrete collection basin, and installation of two livestock watering troughs at strategic locations to improve water resource efficiency.
Further, the directorate has completed the rehabilitation of the Don spring, incorporating a water collection basin, two animal drinking troughs, pipeline extensions, and a water pump to ensure sustainable flow and accessibility at less rugged sites.
In the Wilayat of Rakhyut, comprehensive cleaning and rehabilitation of the Azghot spring involved meticulous removal of trees and rocks while preserving the site's natural features. A retaining wall was constructed to hold the spring water, along with a livestock watering trough situated 250 metres from the spring to facilitate organized water use.
The Water Resources Department Director highlighted that since 2025, the ministry has rehabilitated 17 water springs across various wilayats of Dhofar. This initiative is part of a broader plan to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of natural water resources, with active community participation in maintaining and preserving these vital springs.
He added that current rehabilitation plans include springs affected by the 'Al Masarrat' low-pressure system in March 2026, such as the Shidham spring in Rakhyut, the Thafnat spring in Taqah, and the Agharnut spring in the Alsan area of Salalah. These efforts aim to restore natural water sources, enhance their readiness and sustainability, and contribute to the preservation of the governorate's water and environmental resources.