ERBIL, Kurdistan Region — Erbil is grappling with significant pollution challenges as the city experiences a rise in cancer cases linked to environmental factors. The presence of hundreds of refineries, over a million vehicles, and more than 1,000 power generators are major contributors to the deteriorating air quality.
Dr. Ali Barzinji, a pulmonologist, warns that the increase in toxic gases has led to higher cancer rates, particularly affecting the respiratory tract, colorectal, and stomach areas. “People may be required to wear masks in public not to prevent the spread of coronavirus, but to protect themselves from pollution and ensure they breathe cleaner air,” Barzinji said.
The environmental situation is exacerbated by the widespread use of portable generators. Aso Shkak, head of the Avyar Environmental Awareness Organization, notes that one neighborhood in Erbil operates 350 generators, significantly impacting the city’s air quality. Shkak also highlights a critical shortfall in green spaces, with coverage below 20%, compared to the recommended minimum of 30%.
Erbil Governor Omed Khoshnaw announced Sunday that 138 illegal oil refineries in the province will be closed as part of efforts to make the cities’ environment cleaner.
Erbil is facing a severe pollution crisis due to its hundreds of refineries, over a million vehicles, and more than 1,000 power generators.
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Azad Nuri, a director at the Kurdistan Regional Government’s Board of Environment, stresses the importance of adopting modern, eco-friendly technologies. Nuri stated that green spaces within residential projects should cover at least 25%, and using standard, silent, and eco-friendly power generators.
The Ministry of Health reports 9,911 cancer cases in the Kurdistan Region last year, an increase of more than 800 from 2022. The rise in cases underscores the urgent need for environmental reforms to combat pollution and protect public health.
Reporting by Asra Adnan, Zoom News reporter in Erbil.
