Damascus Sharjah-based Metito (Overseas) Limited has presented a plan to use treated wastewater as a way of dealing with Damascus' water scarcity. The Syrian capital needs an additional 2.3 million gallons of water a year for its drinking, industrial and other needs.

The Metito plan was described as an interim solution.

Metito scientist Hani Tarazi presented a detailed paper at an international desalination conference in Damascus chaired by the Syrian Minister of Communications, Dr Bashir Al Munajid.

Tarazi put forward an economic analysis for a 10,000 cu m per day treatment plant that would provide water at a cost of just $0.42 per cubic metre. Metito's reputation for finding environmentally sound and effective solutions to both drinking water and wastewater treatment systems prompted Syrian authorities to invite the company to present innovative solutions.

Managing director Fady Juez said: "It is clear that reuse applications in Damascus can be planned to overcome water shortage by using advanced treatment systems to produce drinking- water quality. The water can be used through indirect potable reuse projects using soil-aquifer treatment systems."

Metito is well known for its expertise in wastewater treatment, desalination and water supply projects. It operates its European, Asian and African operations from its headquarters in Sharjah and has a factory and laboratory in the Hamriyah Free Zone. Metito was founded in 1958 by Farouk Ghandour, its present chairman