Ancient Dams In Aseer: Reflecting Community Solidarity Through Centuries

In the Aseer Region, ancient dams have served as more than just agricultural water sources for centuries. Known locally as 'kazaim,' these structures reflect a deep-rooted social tradition of community cooperation and welfare. They were primarily used for irrigation, governed by strict social rules and schedules to ensure equitable water distribution among farmers.

These dams were originally fed by freshwater springs, with carefully constructed channels called 'daboul' in the local dialect. These channels, hidden beneath farmlands, extended from water sources to distant fields, facilitating both irrigation and rainwater drainage. Constructed from stones and mud, these small dams were strategically positioned below springs or natural water outlets.

Water flow to farms was managed by opening a specific point known as "Al-Kharza." Abdulrahman Al-Shehri, a farmer at a 'kazaim' site, shared with the Saudi Press Agency that water sharing demonstrated community solidarity. Early settlements often formed around these water sources due to their importance.

The Aseer Region is home to over 60 dams today. Among them is the King Fahd Dam on Wadi Bisha, which holds 325 million cubic meters of water. It stands 103 meters tall with a crest length of 507 meters. Its reservoir spans approximately 18 square kilometers.

The King Fahd Dam features four drainage tunnels equipped with multiple gates and monitoring systems. Another significant dam is the Abha Dam, located west of Abha. It has a capacity of 2.13 million cubic meters, measuring 350 meters in length and 30 meters in height.

Preserving Cultural Heritage

The strict adherence to water allocation schedules was crucial for cooperation among farmers, making these ancient dams an important cultural heritage that some farmers are eager to preserve. The community's commitment to maintaining these traditions highlights their significance beyond mere agricultural utility.

These historical structures not only provided essential resources but also fostered strong community bonds through shared responsibilities and mutual support. The legacy of these ancient dams continues to be cherished by those who understand their historical value and cultural importance.

With inputs from SPA