ARKANSAS, Oct 5 (Future Headlines)- Iraq’s Ministry of Water Resources has announced an ambitious plan to construct 36 new dams across the country in 2024. The goal of this extensive project is to tackle the increasingly severe issues of drought and water scarcity that have plagued Iraq in recent years. Minister of Water Resources Aoun Diab shared details of the plan with the state-owned newspaper al-Sabah, highlighting the urgency of the situation and the need for decisive action.

The decision to move forward with this substantial dam construction project is a response to scientific predictions indicating early rains during the upcoming autumn and winter seasons. Iraq has endured a prolonged four-year drought period that has had devastating effects on water resources and agriculture. The government is taking proactive measures to address these challenges and secure the country’s water supply.

The initiative will begin by initiating the construction of two dams in the current year. The first dam, known as the Abu Takiya dam, is planned for construction near the Shingal and Rabia areas. These locations are situated in the arid Badia desert in the northwest of Iraq. The second dam, named al-Masad, is designated for the western desert region of the country. Minister Diab emphasized that the construction plans for both of these dams have been finalized, marking the initial steps in this comprehensive endeavor.

The primary objective of constructing these dams is to mitigate the impacts of water scarcity and drought in Iraq. These challenges have had far-reaching consequences, affecting agriculture, access to clean drinking water, and overall water availability for various sectors. By creating additional water retention dams, Iraq aims to store and manage water resources more effectively, ensuring a more reliable and sustainable water supply for its citizens.

The urgency of this project cannot be overstated as Iraq grapples with the consequences of prolonged water shortages. Water security is a critical concern, and these new dams represent a proactive step toward achieving greater resilience in the face of future droughts and water-related challenges.

Drought conditions have had a severe impact on Iraq’s environment and agriculture. Insufficient water resources have contributed to reduced crop yields and strained ecosystems. The construction of additional dams offers the potential to rejuvenate agricultural activities, support reforestation efforts, and restore ecological balance in affected regions.

While the immediate focus is on constructing 36 new dams, the long-term goal includes effective water management and conservation practices. These dams will play a crucial role in storing water during periods of abundance and releasing it when needed to address water scarcity. The project aligns with Iraq’s commitment to improving water infrastructure and ensuring a more sustainable future for its people.

Iraq’s plan to build 36 new dams demonstrates a commitment to addressing pressing water challenges head-on. By taking proactive measures to enhance water security and mitigate the impacts of drought, Iraq aims to secure a more stable and resilient future for its citizens. The construction of these dams represents a significant step in the journey toward effective water resource management and environmental restoration.

Reporting by Kevin Wood; Editing by Sarah White