Is it a mirage? Egypt is under construction of the world's largest artificial river in the desert

Egypt is transforming the western desert with an unprecedented project: the largest artificial river in the world. Located southwest of Cairo, construction of this colossal project aims to convert 6.000 km² of arid desert into a vast agricultural area by 2025, and 12.000 km² by 2030.

Imagine being lost in the hot Egyptian desert, thirsty and on the verge of death. Suddenly, you see something green on the horizon: an oasis the size of a country. This is the scenario that Egypt is in creating with construction of the largest artificial river in the world.

The project, of epic proportions, will transform almost 6.000 km² of desert into a gigantic farm. This area will include hundreds of kilometers of new roads, residential areas, two power plants, the world's largest sewage treatment plant and the world's largest man-made river. The first phase of construction is scheduled to be completed by 2025, while the second phase, which will double the reclaimed area to 12.000 km², will be completed by 2030.

But why is Egypt investing billions of dollars in building this project while it has the magnificent Nile River?

The answer lies in the serious water crisis the country is facing. With a population expected to reach 115 million people by 2024, Egypt simply does not have enough water to sustain its growth and keep its land fertile.

Water scarcity is worsened by the Renaissance Dam, which was built by Ethiopia, which slows the flow of the Nile River. Furthermore, Egypt faces climate change and increased desertification, with only 5% of its arable land actually used due to lack of water.

The agricultural sector is crucial to the Egyptian economy, contributing 14% of GDP and employing 28% of the workforce

The construction of the New Delta Project is vital as it will allow 5 million families to maintain a stable source of income, as well as creating jobs for more than 20.000 new graduates in various areas related to the project.

Contrary to many expectations, the Novo Delta Project will not use water from the Nile River for irrigation. Egypt is investing in wastewater recycling at a new facility called the AL Hamam Water Treatment Plant, which will provide up to 7,5 million cubic meters of water per day. The connection to the Nile River will only be used in emergencies, such as a possible collapse of the Renaissance Dam.

The 114 km long artificial river will be fed by wastewater treatment plants and underground reservoirs

Construction involves open canals, underground pipes, pumping stations and bridges, as well as residential and commercial areas along the river. The AL Hamam wastewater treatment plant will be the largest in the world, with the capacity to treat millions of cubic meters of water daily. Underground reservoirs in the Western Desert will provide additional water for the project.

With completion scheduled for 2030, Egypt is expected to once again become a major food exporter. Multinational companies are already investing in the project, which is being carried out at a much lower cost compared to similar projects in other countries, due to lower labor and materials costs in Egypt.

Construction of this project is in full swing, on time and on budget

E promises to radically transform the country's landscape and economy, providing a sustainable solution to Egypt's water crisis. This megaproject highlights Egypt's ability to innovate and face monumental challenges. With careful planning and efficient use of resources, the country is creating an oasis in the desert, ensuring a safer and more prosperous future for millions of its citizens.