Water megaprojects in deserts and drylands

Water megaprojects reconfigure the conception and use of desert landscapes. Driven by limited water resources, increasing demand and growing populations, projects are framed by statements of water delivered, end-users served and local benefits. Decision-making processes, socio-economic costs and environmental implications receive less attention. Research examines the motivations involved and evaluates the challenges of water megaprojects in deserts, including the Great Manmade River (Libya), the South-to-North Water Transfer Scheme (China), the Central Arizona Project (United States) and the Greater Anatolia Project (Turkey), and assesses related projects exemplifying the diversity of water projects in drylands. Their viability and efficacy depends on human motivations and interpretations.