The Minister of Environment inaugurates a cloud seeding research aircraft and inspects projects in Mecca
In a move that enhances the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's capabilities in climate research and water resources, the Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture, Engineer Abdulrahman bin Abdulmohsen Al-Fadhli, inaugurated a cloud seeding research aircraft, the most advanced of its kind in the world. This aircraft functions as a fully integrated atmospheric laboratory equipped with state-of-the-art technology for highly accurate measurement of atmospheric elements, representing a significant leap forward in supporting studies and research related to cloud seeding operations in the Kingdom.
Enhancing water security and the Saudi Green Initiative
The launch of this aircraft comes within the framework of ongoing national efforts under the Regional Cloud Seeding Program, an outcome of the Middle East Green Summit and the Saudi Green Initiative. These ambitious programs aim to increase rainfall in the Kingdom, create new water sources, and enhance vegetation cover to combat desertification—strategic objectives the Kingdom seeks to achieve in line with Vision 2030 to ensure the sustainability of natural resources for future generations.
Inspection tours of food and water security projects
During his visit to the Makkah region, Minister Al-Fadhli toured the projects and programs of the National Aquaculture Group (NAQWA). He was briefed on the latest technologies and scientific methods used to develop the aquaculture sector, a cornerstone of the Kingdom's food security strategy, which aims to increase self-sufficiency in marine products.
The tour also included a visit to the experimental farm project implemented by the “Sustainability” Center in Al-Lith Governorate, where he listened to a detailed explanation about the center’s efforts to raise the efficiency of water resource use and apply modern irrigation systems, which contributes to enhancing the sustainability of agricultural production and reducing water waste.
Preparations for Ramadan and Hajj season
As part of preparations for the religious seasons, Engineer Al-Fadhli conducted a field visit to the development projects being implemented by the National Water Company in Mecca and the Holy Sites. He held an extensive meeting with company officials to ensure operational readiness for the holy month of Ramadan and the Hajj season of 1447 AH, emphasizing the importance of guaranteeing a sustainable water distribution and increasing the reliability of the supply to serve pilgrims and residents of the region.
The minister concluded his tour by inspecting the groundwater and surface water purification unit project and the Wadi Al-Laith dam, praising the efforts made to strengthen the water resources management system and protect the governorate from floods, and stressing the need to move forward with the implementation of the comprehensive development plans for the system.
