Basra’s Water Crisis: Government Takes Action

During his recent visit to Basra, Prime Minister Mohammed S. Al-Sudani addressed the ongoing water shortage crisis affecting Basra and other southern provinces. He highlighted that the issue recurs each season, mainly due to climate change and reduced water releases from upstream countries.

A high-level meeting with Basra’s local government, relevant ministers, and the governors of Maysan and Dhi Qar reviewed plans to tackle the crisis. Strategic measures are underway, including a major seawater desalination project, with contracts authorised and work already started on site.

Additional desalination projects will be launched across several areas to meet growing water demands. The Prime Minister also noted diplomatic efforts with Türkiye, which have led to increased water flows in the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, helping to ease shortages.

The government condemned the rise of fish farming lakes, which worsen the crisis, and launched a campaign to remove illegal river encroachments. Legal action is being taken against violators to protect water supplies.

A technical support team, approved by the Council of Ministers, will oversee water projects with allocated funding to ensure timely completion. The federal government remains fully committed to supporting Basra’s local authorities.

Prime Minister Al-Sudani said, “We discussed procedures for implementing projects that will provide a fundamental solution to the water shortage crisis in Basra and the southern governorates.” He called for unity and responsible cooperation among officials and citizens, emphasising that combined efforts aim to resolve the crisis with effective, long-term solutions.