Manama, Oct. 23 (BNA): In line with the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, the Ministry of Works has announced the launch of the Innovation in Irrigation Solution Competition.

The competition aims to encourage creative ideas and solutions that optimise the use of surplus treated water, enhance efficiency in agriculture and afforestation, promote resource sustainability, protect the environment, and expand irrigation networks in support of the Kingdom of Bahrain's comprehensive development goals under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.

Ibrahim bin Hassan Al Hawaj, Minister of Works, announced that registration for the competition is open from October 23 to November 6, with idea submissions due by February 10, 2026, via the ministry's official website www.works.gov.bh.

Minister Al Hawaj said that the competition targets individuals, engineering firms, contractors, universities, research centres, and other institutions to submit practical innovations that improve water use efficiency and ensure balanced irrigation of trees and crops. He noted that this will support agricultural and urban beautification efforts across Bahrain.

He added that the initiative also aims to increase the use of surplus treated water in irrigating public parks and expand its application in new projects, offering economic and sustainable irrigation solutions that contribute to environmental and water sustainability goals. He underscored that smart irrigation solutions are expected to enhance water management and reduce consumption in road and public area projects.

The Works Minister explained that the ministry, in collaboration with relevant authorities, has established regulatory mechanisms to ensure the competition meets its objectives of developing and expanding irrigation networks using advanced technology. He emphasised the ministry’s commitment to integrating infrastructure and environmental projects to achieve sustainable development.

Regarding the competition structure, Minister Al Hawaj said it includes two main categories: one focuses on innovative irrigation solutions in specific locations such as King Hamad Highway, Gulf of Bahrain Avenue, and Sheikh Jaber Al Ahmad Al Sabah Highway; the other involves selecting an area without treated water services to assess its needs and propose integrated solutions. Entries will be evaluated based on economic feasibility, cost, durability, sustainability, innovation, creativity, and design quality to ensure high standards and support national efforts to sustain water resources and increase green areas.

He concluded by describing the competition as a national initiative to harness innovation for environmental service and water sustainability, inviting all interested individuals and entities to participate and submit ideas that enhance water efficiency and improve irrigation systems throughout the Kingdom.

A.S, S.E