press releases 2009

U.S. Government Breaks Ground for a New Wastewater Treatment Plant in Beqaa

August 11, 2009

Ambassador Michele J. Sison, the United States Agency for International Development’s (USAID) Deputy Assistant Administrator for the Middle East Anne Aarnes, and the USAID/Lebanon Mission Director Denise A. Herbol attended the groundbreaking ceremony for the Ablah Wastewater Treatment plant.   Members of Parliament, the Governor of Beqaa, and community leaders were also present, underscoring the importance of this treatment plant that will serve 14,000 citizens.

This new wastewater treatment plant, located in Ablah, will diminish the pollution in the Upper Litani River Basin by treating 2,000 cubic meters of sewage per day, thus eliminating direct disposal of waste into the river.  This $4 million USAID funded project includes construction, equipment, commissioning and training for the employees as well as operation and maintenance assistance for nine months following construction.  It will be implemented by Camp Dresser & McKee (CDM) in partnership with the municipalities of Ablah, Nabi Ayla and Niha.   The municipalities will provide access roads, electricity, water and sewage networks, and they will dispose of the waste generated by the treatment plant to the nearest solid waste facility.

At the event, Ambassador Michele J. Sison emphasized the importance of the environment and the Litani River Basin for the health and welfare of Lebanese citizens, and stressed the U.S. Government’s support for Lebanon.  The USAID/Lebanon Mission Director Denise A. Herbol emphasized the municipalities’ contributions towards the success of the project.  

This project is part of an $18 million USAID “Wastewater Systems for Small Villages” program which will alleviate the pollution of the Litani River to improve citizens’ health.