Today, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Tulkarem Municipality launched a project aimed at improving the wastewater collection system in Tulkarem. The initiative addresses the current issue of untreated wastewater flowing into an open stream, which poses risks to public health and the environment and has caused social tensions.
Over the next two years, the project will focus on developing new sewer pipelines and upgrading the Irtah pump station. This will redirect wastewater to oxidation ponds, preventing over two million cubic meters of untreated wastewater from being discharged freely each year. USAID's investment is expected to provide over 70,000 residents in Tulkarem City with access to safely managed wastewater services, mitigate a significant public health risk, and protect essential groundwater resources from contamination.
During the event, Amy Tohill-Stull, USAID West Bank and Gaza’s Mission Director, stated: “Water and wastewater services have always been, and will continue to be a priority for USAID. We are happy to partner with the Municipality to ensure the people of Tulkarem have access to basic services to improve overall community health, security and safety.”
Tulkarem Mayor Dr. Riyad Awad expressed gratitude for USAID's support: “We express our great appreciation and gratitude for USAID and the American people for this generous grant. This is a greatly important environmental and economic project for Tulkarem’s people and the infrastructure of the city. We look forward to further cooperation between our two peoples in the United States and Tulkarem city.”
This project forms part of a broader USAID effort to enhance living conditions for Palestinians while supporting prospects for a viable two-state solution. Between 2021 and 2023, USAID plans to provide over $500 million in development and humanitarian assistance to Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza.