PM Masrour Barzani urges proactive measures to tackle impacts of climate change
ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – In the face of a recent surge in rainfall leading to flooding, Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Prime Minister Masrour Barzani has spearheaded proactive measures to address the escalating crisis, underscoring the region's commitment to tackling the impacts of climate change.
Sarwa Rasul, Director General of the Coordination and Crisis Center at the Ministry of Interior, revealed to Kurdistan24 on Thursday the extensive preparations undertaken to mitigate the effects of the deluge.
"The recent severe rainfall, particularly in Duhok province, engulfing areas with approximately 170 mm of rainfall over three days, posed significant challenges. Responding to such disasters demands comprehensive planning and swift action," Rasul emphasized.
“Had preemptive measures not been enacted, hundreds of citizens' lives would have been at risk,” Rasul warned.
“On March 18, an emergency operation room convened, comprising representatives from 17 ministries and crisis departments of autonomous administrations, issuing alerts through various media channels to inform citizens of the impending danger,” she added.
Rasul also highlighted that civil defense teams, municipal bodies, and other relevant stakeholders were swiftly mobilized and put on high alert. “Notably, the Barzani Charitable Foundation ensured the provision of essential services, including hot meals, demonstrating a unified response to the crisis,” she undescored.
Tragically, the heavy rains on Tuesday morning, dated March 19, resulted in three fatalities, submerged residences, and disrupted transportation networks, underscoring the severity of the situation.
Prime Minister Masrour Barzani personally reached out to Dr. Ali Tatar, the governor of Duhok, emphasizing the urgency of safeguarding citizens' lives and coordinating relief efforts without delay.
The Kurdistan Regional Government's decisive actions in the face of adversity underline its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens, even amidst the most challenging circumstances.