The dams are multifunctional because they guarantee protection to hamlets and villages from the ravages of flashfloods, replenish depleting sources of underground water, making earth arable besides creating more tourist locations.

Minister of Water and Electricity Abdullah bin Abdul Rahman Al-Hussayen said last week that the life and potential of existing dams are being studied so that new dams could be constructed where necessary.

Al-Hussayen added that many large water projects are being implemented in Makkah, Jeddah, Taif, Baha, Mahayil Asir, Al-Ola and Madinah. Studies are also underway on water resources in the valleys east of the Hijaz mountains.

Most dams in the Kingdom are made of mud, concrete or mixing various substances. Some are built underground. Agriculturists are demanding that networks of canals should be dug to exploit the country’s water reserves for increased farming.