Historical Background on the Litani River

Abstract

This chapter traces the emergence and interventions of the Litani River Authority (LRA) as the main agent of development of the Litani River. Notwithstanding the numerous problems that the LRA faces today—including the unclear division of responsibilities in the sector, administrative weaknesses and a long list of shortcomings it has in common with the Lebanese administration—it remains an institution with a long history, a vision, and the potential to address the ecological crises of the Litani River. After a brief overview of the history of LRA, this chapter lays out a broad framework for action that should allow the LRA to step up to the developmental challenges faced in the Litani River Basin (LRB), and Lebanon in general, as well as overcome its own administrative shortcomings to improve its efficiency.