King Talal Dam, Dam in Balqa Governorate, Jordan

King Talal Dam is a dam in Balqa Governorate, Jordan, built on the Zarqa River with a height of 106 meters and a length of 350 meters. It holds back water from winter rains and treated wastewater, forming a reservoir that supplies irrigation for the Jordan Valley.

King Talal Dam was first built in 1978 and later raised in 1988 to meet growing water needs. The project involved international funding and engineering, and it has since become a key part of Jordan's water system.

The dam is named after King Talal, and its reservoir has become a familiar landmark for people living in the area. Local farmers rely on the water it releases, and the sight of the wide reservoir against the dry hills is a common reference point in daily conversation.

The dam is reached by road from Amman or Salt, and the surrounding hills offer viewpoints over the reservoir. Visitors should be aware that the area is an active infrastructure site, so access to certain parts may be limited.

The dam stores treated wastewater from Amman and Zarqa, which is then used for irrigation, making it a vital part of the region's water reuse system. This less obvious role means that the water behind the dam is not for drinking but supports agriculture downstream.