The Red- to Dead Sea conveyance system; bridging the water shortage and prospects for desalination

In this paper we investigate the proposed Red to Dead Sea water conveyance system construction which is scheduled to commence in the timeframe 2010-2011. The project is expected to consume 13 years in execution time. Expected construction costs fall in the range US $5-7 billion. Beneficiaries to the project are neighboring countries to the Dead Sea. Feasibility and assessment studies of the proposed conduit were already taking place in the period 2007-2009 in an effort led by consultants to the World Bank. Consultation was provided by experts from Coyne Et Bellier in association with Tractebel Engineering and Kema. Underlying assessment and feasibility phases have already exhausted US $15 million. The Red to Dead Sea conveyance system was mainly meant to replenish the declining seawater levels of the Dead Sea which are falling at a rate of 1 meter per year. With this level of decline the surrounding ecosystem shared by the project beneficiaries is under imminent threat where existing investments in industrial infrastructure and tourism will end up in great jeopardy if no action is taken to counterbalance the current situation. Furthermore, this paper will investigate the various alternatives in question together with high desalination potentials in a region dominated by arid climate with little rainfall when it happens.