A sakiyeh, also spelled sakia or sakieh, is a traditional irrigation device commonly used in certain regions of the Middle East and North Africa. Derived from ancient Egyptian technology, it is essentially a water wheel made of wood or metal, consisting of several connected buckets or pots. The sakiyeh is commonly powered by humans, animals, or occasionally by wind or water currents.
The operation of the sakiyeh involves the rotation of the water wheel, which scoops up water from a nearby river, stream, or well and transports it upwards. As the wheel rotates, the buckets or pots are filled with water and transported to a higher elevation. Once they reach the top, the buckets empty their contents into a trough or canal, enabling the water to flow down and irrigate nearby fields or gardens.
Sakiyehs are known for their simplicity and efficiency, allowing communities in arid regions to harness limited water resources for irrigation purposes. They have been an integral part of traditional agricultural practices, used to sustain crops and ensure food security. Despite advancements in modern irrigation systems, sakiyehs are still used in some rural areas, particularly where access to electricity or machinery is limited.
In summary, a sakiyeh is a traditional irrigation device consisting of a wooden or metal water wheel with buckets or pots. It is powered by humans, animals, wind, or water currents, and is used to lift water from a source to irrigate nearby fields.
