Mseilha Dam in Lebanon faces leakage issues since 2019

The Mseilha Dam, located on the Jaouz River in northern Lebanon, has been plagued by leakage issues since it was filled at the end of 2019. Construction of the dam began in 2014, costing $64 million, but it has faced significant criticism for its environmental impact and lack of proper studies. In August 2024, the first investigating judge in North Lebanon, Samaranda Nassar, ordered the dam to be sealed off, highlighting the urgent need for an expert opinion on its construction. Environmental activists have raised concerns about the dam's location, arguing that the karstic nature of the Lebanese mountains makes them unsuitable for dam construction. They emphasize that the site’s low elevation of 45 meters above sea level increases sediment deposition, further complicating the dam's functionality. Opponents of the project, including local residents, have expressed their discontent over the destruction of natural habitats, including the cutting down of oak and olive trees that were vital to the local economy. They argue that the dam has altered the natural cycles of the River Jaouz, leading to ecological disasters. Despite the significant investment, many believe that an additional $10 million for waterproofing work would be a waste of resources. Activists are calling for the abandonment of the project and the rehabilitation of the site, emphasizing the need for sustainable practices in managing Lebanon's water resources.