Aflaj is an Arabic word which means ‘split into parts.’ The system evenly divides water between farms and therefore it is known as Falaj. It refers to an underground channel that ensures the supply of water to the crops.It is an ancient irrigation system that has been an integral part of Al Dakhliya, Al Batinah and Al Sharqiyah REGIONS in Oman since 500 AD. The FAMOUS Al Ain Aflaj system is reported to have existed from around 1000 years BC, making it the oldest in the region.Aflaj is dug deep in the earth, so it extracts water from underground sources such as wadis and wells. Water flows through the system by the force of gravity, without any intervention of machines. Water constantly streams in these water systems of the oasis. The flow increases during the rainy season in Oman.There are three major parts of this traditional irrigation network, including:UMM AL FALAJUmm Al Falaj refers to ‘the mother well’ in the Arabic language. It is the major source of water in the system.TUNNELThe tunnel delivers a large amount of subterranean water from Umm Al Falaj to its destination. It varies in length depending on the kind of place where the system RUNS, the amount of water and the shipping point.ACCESS SHAFTSShafts are BUILT at a 20-metre distance along the tunnel. They also have a ring of burnt clay that removes debris and helps in ventilation. The ring protects the channel from destruction in case the tunnel collapses and also prevents the falaj from flooding.....