ERBIL, Kurdistan Region — Severe water shortages in Erbil, exacerbated by extreme summer heat, have driven residents to protest and block major roads in an overnight demonstration on Wednesday. Protesters aimed to prompt relevant authorities to address and resolve the crisis that has persisted for the past two months.
Erbil residents have been grappling with acute water shortages, with some claiming they have been without a water supply for nearly two months. They demand urgent solutions and have resorted to blocking major roads in a desperate call for immediate action from local authorities.
Zoom News’ reporter Diyar Adil was on the ground at the protest in Erbil, where residents voiced their frustrations and anger over the severe water shortages.
Amidst the ongoing water crisis, one resident shared his personal struggles, revealing that his neighborhood has been without water for nearly two months. “To get water, we have to buy a tanker for 25,000 Iraqi dinars,” he said, highlighting the added financial strain.
Another resident expressed frustration over the ineffectiveness of promises made by local authorities. Despite repeated assurances from officials, residents have only received the temporary solution of water tankers. “We have notified the water office directorate several times, but the issue remains unresolved. The only person who can truly address the issue is the KRG Prime Minister,” another Erbil resident added.
One resident confirmed that the last time they had access to a water supply was a week ago. However, he expressed concerns over the road blockades by protesting residents, which obstruct public transportation.
Despite having three water treatment plants and over 5,300 wells, many of Erbil’s neighborhoods are struggling with water shortages amid the extreme heat of the summer season.
Authorities have yet to provide a long-term solution to the water crisis, leaving residents anxious and frustrated as they continue to cope with the severe water shortages
