Title: Water resources and management in Tunisia

Authors: Noureddine Gaaloul

Addresses: National Research Institute for Rural Engineering, Water And Forestry (INRGREF), Rue Hedi Karray, B.P.10, 2080 Ariana, Tunisia

Abstract: This paper focuses on the work done through the INRGREF to collect and analyse available information on water resources in Tunisia. It presents the quantity and quality of surface and groundwater resources data. Water resources in Tunisia are characterised by scarcity and a pronounced irregularity. Tunisia has been able to develop a complex and diverse water infrastructure allowing the country to mobilise and exploit available water resources. This paper is intended to provide an overview of the current water situation in Tunisia by presenting its water potential with a focus on its regime and spatial variability, water demand trends for the different economic sectors, the choices made to manage the water balance deficits, and the various problems and challenges faced in managing this resource.

Keywords: water resources; surface water; groundwater; salinity; Tunisia; water management.

DOI: 10.1504/IJW.2011.043319

International Journal of Water, 2011 Vol.6 No.1/2, pp.92 - 116

Published online: 24 Oct 2011 *

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