Sudanese geoscientists have downplayed concerns surrounding the recent earthquakes in Ethiopia affecting the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). The seismic events are occurring a safe distance away, and the dam was designed to withstand such occurrences. While a worst-case scenario of partial failure could have serious implications for Sudan and Egypt, experts assure that immediate risks are low. Calls for further investigation into GERD’s environmental impact have also emerged.
Recent seismic activity in the Afar region of northwest Ethiopia has triggered concerns about the impact on the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and its implications for Sudan and Egypt. Amid a series of earthquakes, including a significant 8.1 magnitude quake that struck recently, Sudanese geoscientists have reiterated that there is no immediate danger to the dam, as the seismic events are occurring over 100 kilometers away from it. The GERD was built to endure seismic disturbances, and assessments indicate that it remains secure despite these geological activities.
While Sudanese engineer Abdelkarim El Amin assured that the seismic activity is geographically distant from the dam, concerns remain about its structural integrity, particularly in light of reported low water levels. Nonetheless, the geoscientists assert that a leak is unlikely to compromise the dam’s stability. El Amin emphasized that, “the area where the GERD is built is far from the earthquake zone in eastern Ethiopia,” asserting the dam’s capacity to handle seismic pressures.
El Amin further explained that while a hypothetical catastrophic failure of the GERD could result in significant flooding across Sudan and Egypt, such an outcome from current seismic risks is improbable. He recommended further scientific inquiries into the GERD’s environmental impact, advocating for a cooperative approach among interest groups rather than politically driven agendas. By forming an expert unit, stakeholders can navigate the complexities of water resources surrounding the Nile Basin effectively.
In summary, while the recent earthquakes have provoked anxiety about the GERD, experts in Sudan affirm that the dam is rather well located to withstand such seismic activities. The ongoing situation necessitates a multidisciplinary scientific committee to ensure that all safety and environmental aspects associated with the GERD remain thoroughly explored and addressed.
The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), a key infrastructural project for Ethiopia, has faced scrutiny regarding its safety amid ongoing seismic events in nearby regions. The Afar region has been experiencing a series of earthquakes, causing the evacuation of over 80,000 residents. Although these seismic activities have raised alarms, especially concerning possible consequences for neighboring Sudan and Egypt, experts have assured the public that these tremors do not pose a direct threat to the integrity of the GERD. The dam was designed incorporating seismic considerations, aiming to mitigate risks from geological disturbances.
In conclusion, the seismic disturbances near Ethiopia’s Afar region have prompted responses from geoscientists who have assessed that the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is secure against the current earthquakes. The geographical distance from the seismic activity and the dam’s structural design are significant mitigating factors. Nonetheless, there is a call for further scientific research to collaboratively address any ongoing environmental impacts regarding the GERD, reinforcing the need for an informed and cooperative approach among affected nations.
Original Source: www.dabangasudan.org
