Baghdad: Iraq prepares advanced studies for constructing ten dams for water harvesting in desert areas as part of an urgent strategy to ensure water security and reduce dependence on traditional sources. Water Resources Minister Awn Dhiab Abdullah emphasized the critical role these dams will play in storing floodwater and rainwater, enhancing the strategic reserves, especially in provinces lacking surface water resources.
According to Emirates News Agency, the minister highlighted the severity of the current water shortage, describing it as the most dangerous in Iraq's history. This crisis has compelled 12 provinces to rely solely on groundwater to meet their needs. Abdullah stressed that the construction of these dams is part of an urgent strategy to bolster water security and minimize the reliance on traditional water sources.
The minister underscored the necessity of collaboration between government entities and the private sector to expedite the implementation of water harvesting projects. Abdullah also pointed out that over half of Iraq's desert regions are dependent on groundwater, further illustrating the urgent need for the proposed dams.