A Master’s Thesis at Al-Furat Al-Awsat Technical University Investigates the Reuse of Treated Wastewater for Crop Irrigation in Karbala
The Al-Musayyab Technical College, one of the constituent colleges of Al-Furat Al-Awsat Technical University, witnessed the discussion of a Master’s thesis submitted by researcher Zainab Ali Sakheel from the Department of Building and Construction Engineering Techniques / Environmental Techniques. The thesis is entitled:
“Evaluating the Possibility of Reusing Effluent Wastewater at Karbala Main Wastewater Treatment Plant for Irrigation Purpose.”
The study aimed to evaluate the possibility of reusing treated wastewater from the Karbala Main Wastewater Treatment Plant for agricultural irrigation purposes in accordance with Iraqi, regional, and international standards. It also sought to assess the efficiency of the treatment plant and develop statistical models for predicting pollutant removal efficiency, thereby providing a practical and replicable framework for other Iraqi cities.
The results showed that the treated wastewater during the summer season is suitable for restricted and conditional irrigation due to elevated levels of BOD₅, TSS, and COD during peak hours. During the winter season, however, the treated wastewater demonstrated higher suitability and better conditions, allowing its use for irrigating a wider range of crops.
The study recommended adopting a flexible, season-based irrigation management strategy and utilizing treated wastewater to enhance the green belt around the city of Karbala, thereby helping to combat desertification and conserve freshwater resources. It also recommended conducting future studies to monitor the long-term effects of salts on soil and developing biological phosphate removal units by improving operational control of the plant’s A²O system.
The study highlights the importance of utilizing wastewater treatment and reuse technologies as sustainable solutions to address water scarcity and desertification while promoting environmentally sound resource management in Iraqi cities.
