Water Resources Minister Confirms Iraq Possesses 31 Billion Cubic Meters of Water Reserves

Iraq's Minister of Water Resources, Muthanna Al-Tamimi, announced on Sunday that the country's current water reserves amount to approximately 31 billion cubic meters. Al-Tamimi revealed a plan to improve the environment in the marshlands and deliver water to drought-affected areas. In a statement, the Minister clarified that the current reserves are being effectively utilized. He indicated Iraq's average water requirement is 30 billion cubic meters, yet irrigation needs demand 50 to 60 billion cubic meters annually. He affirmed that the ministry's policy focuses on rationalizing water usage and supplying it to dry regions, alongside ongoing efforts to improve the environmental situation in the country's marshes. Al-Tamimi also highlighted infringements impacting the Tigris River's course and other violations affecting water quality and the environment of both the Tigris and Euphrates, alongside breaches in water shares. He affirmed the ministry's daily monitoring of these numerous violation-related issues.