The Minister of Water and Electricity has said that extensive studies of the Al-Wajeed water basin in the Empty Quarter have shown the presence of large water deposits which could be used to supply the region of Asir. Minister Abdullah Al-Hussayen, speaking in Bisha last Thursday, said the German company conducting the study identified a basin area of 30,000 sq. m, and that a route to connect up Tathleeth, Bisha and eastern regions of Asir with the supply would be looked at in two weeks' time. Al-Husaayen said that bids for the project would be held publicly with only contractors classified in group A permitted to tender. The minister added that the project was considered “top priority” and that contracts would be granted to more than one company.