The dam-filling rate in the Cap-Bon region currently stands at 7%, while the national level remains below 26%, head of the Local Union of Agriculture and Fisheries in Menzel Bouzelfa Bayrem Hamada told TAP Friday.

The rainwater collected during the rains in May and June was mainly used for irrigation and drinking water consumption, Hamada said.

The UTAP official highlighted the difficulties faced by the agricultural sector due to a prolonged period of low rainfall, and stressed the need for the construction of new dams with greater capacity.

He called for a review of regulations on well drilling and advocated streamlined permitting procedures.

"This has been crucial in securing the agricultural sector, especially during the past three years of severe drought."

The Cap-Bon region is home to four irrigation dams: Bezirk Dam in Menzel Bouzelfa (5 million cubic metres), Oued Chiba Dam in Korba (3.8 million cubic metres), Lebna Dam in El Mida (25 million cubic metres) and El Abid Dam in Takelsa (9.6 million cubic metres).

Source: Agence Tunis Afrique Presse