PM Masrour Barzani tackles Erbil’s water crisis with bold 30-year solution

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – On Sunday, the Kurdistan Region’s Prime Minister Masrour Barzani reaffirmed his commitment to resolving Erbil’s long-standing water shortages through a landmark water supply project, aiming to secure the capital’s water needs for the next 30 years.

During his address, PM Barzani acknowledged the struggles many citizens face, particularly in the summer months, and criticized those who have used the crisis for political gain.

“Water shortages cannot be solved with a few tankers; projects like this are needed to bring water from the Great River to Erbil,” PM Barzani stated.

He assured that the initiative will not only address the immediate crisis but will also prevent future water shortages. He has also instructed the reorganization of internal water networks across the city to ensure a reliable and even distribution of water once the project is completed.

In addition to Erbil, PM Masrour Barzani has launched a separate water project for Qushtapa and nearby villages, utilizing water from a smaller river. This development will enable the closure of hundreds of wells, allowing the groundwater to recover.

Moreover, PM Barzani emphasized the importance of expediting the start of a water recycling project, which aims to protect the environment and conserve valuable groundwater resources for non-potable uses such as cleanliness and irrigation.

Amid the increasing pressures of climate change, Prime Minister Barzani highlighted ongoing efforts by the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) to construct multiple dams of varying sizes to secure water for agriculture and tourism.

These projects, alongside a broader strategy to promote water conservation, are part of a long-term vision to protect Kurdistan's natural resources.

“Unfortunately, per capita water consumption in the Kurdistan Region exceeds international standards,” PM Masrour Barzani remarked, calling on educational institutions, civil society organizations, religious leaders, and the media to encourage responsible water use.

The Prime Minister’s strategic initiatives reflect a commitment to ensuring Erbil’s water security and protecting the region’s environment for future generations.