Authorities dismantle illegal pipeline diverting water in Muwaqar

AMMAN — Authorities uncovered an alleged major violation against the main water carrier in Muwaqar, from which over 100 cubic metres of freshwater were siphoned off per hour, the Water Ministry said on Tuesday.

A two-inch pipeline was installed within the main carrier, which supplies the area with water, diverting water to a number of Muwaqar's factories and water tanks.

The illegal fixture was dismantled and an investigation is under way, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported.

The ministry underlined that the national campaign to end all forms of water theft and violations is still ongoing, urging the public to cooperate with authorities by reporting violations on water resources and networks.

Under the Water Authority of Jordan (WAJ) Law, those who abuse water carriers and mains, wastewater, pumping, purification or desalination stations, cause the pollution of water resources, pipes or stations used for drinking water or are involved in the digging of wells without obtaining a licence, will be jailed for up to five years and fined up to JD7,000. 

In addition, violators of WAJ water and wastewater projects will be jailed for up to three years and fined up to JD5,000.

All penalties stipulated under the new law will be doubled in the case of repeat offenders, according to the ministry, which said that Article 31 of the legislation classifies water conveyance schemes and pipes as “strategic, vital projects”.