The Falaj
The Falaj
The falaj form a unique irrigation system in Oman. Five of these systems have been part of the UNESCO World Heritage . According to legend, some of the most sophisticated water systems in the world were built under the reign of King Solomon to alleviate the suffering of the peoples in the dry regions. Therefore, he had these incredible irrigation channels of the falaj designed.
Today, it has been widely researched that the Persians were the first builders of the falaj and established these unique canal systems. The simple yet effective principle of the falaj consists of a sophisticated technique: By rearranging and moving flaps and stones, water is directed through narrow tunnels and constructed channels to where it is needed. By utilizing gradients, it is controlled and distributed to the towns and villages.
The system is still intact
Currently, 3000 to 4500 of the old irrigation systems, with a total length of over 1000 kilometers, are in use as a functioning water supply system.
In Oman, three forms of falaj are distinguished:
- The Aini-Aflaj, which is directly fed by springs
- The Ghaili-Aflaj, which receives water from a wadi and directs it to the destination via open channels
- The Iddi-Aflaj, which takes groundwater from underground wells and brings it to the surface over kilometer-long paths in tunnels up to 20 m deep with minimal gradient
A wakir opens and closes the aflaj (falaj) channels according to a precisely defined schedule and directs fresh water to the destinations approximately every six hours. The ruler is particularly proud and Sultan Qaboos ibn Said that the ten-kilometer-long tunnel has been functioning for over 200 years and that visitors today are still visibly impressed by the astonishing old yet innovative technology of the falaj irrigation system.
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