Baghdad – The Iraqi Ministry of Water Resources confirmed on Monday that the country does not suffer from a shortage in water storage, but rather from reduced inflows that currently amount to less than 40% of its entitlement. The ministry also stressed that all dams are safe and subject to regular inspection and maintenance.
Ministry spokesman Khalid Shamal told the Iraqi News Agency (INA) that Iraq’s current water storage stands at around 8 billion cubic meters, representing about 8% of total capacity, distributed across dams, Lake Tharthar, and the main river course.
He noted that Iraq’s dam system is nearly complete and plays a crucial role in storing water during peak seasons from winter through late spring. He added that all dams are managed by the General Authority for Dams and Reservoirs under the supervision of the ministry, with routine programs in place for maintenance, rehabilitation, and monitoring. Advanced sensors are also installed to detect any changes in dam structures.
Regarding the upcoming agricultural season, Shamal explained that the plan will rely on three key indicators: expected inflows from neighboring countries and rainfall, the volume of available storage, and global market trends. If rainfall remains scarce and inflows stay low, with storage levels insufficient, the ministry may resort to a structural agricultural plan focusing mainly on securing seeds.
Source: Iraqi News Agency (INA)
