Djedi

Djedi river is one of the longest rivers in Algeria. It begins in the Saharan Atlas mountains at an elevation of around 1,400 meters, runs for about 480 kilometers from west to east, and discharges into Chott Melrhir lake, which is Algeria's lowest point at about 40 meters below mean sea level. It is supplied by rain and melting snow, and only the top half of it maintains a constant flow. The river originates on the southern slopes of Djebel Amour, near Aflou, and supplies water to various date palm orchards, including the Laghouat oasis, which relies heavily on it; water is also obtained from numerous wells drilled near the river.

The river contributes to raising the water level of Chott Melrhir during the rainy season in the winter, but the lake and lower portions of the river dry out in the summer. The riverbed is largely made up of gypsum and mud, and there are signs of erosion due to the enormous changes in inflow. Despite the fact that the soil in and around the river appears to be bearable, it is barren due to the high salt content. Because of this, the soil collects a lot of moisture overnight, which keeps it partly humid for most of the day.

The name of the river is assumed to be originated from the Berber language Irzer Idjdi, which translates to Arabic Ouad Djedi.

Length: 298 miles