Deluge of mug, debris
Flooding leaves third of Zakho without water
ZAKHO — Following devastating floods that struck several days ago, about 35% of Zakho has been left without water, the Ministry of Municipalities announced. The old water project in Zakho has been completely halted due to the flooding, causing material damages estimated at 1.5 billion Iraqi dinars (about $1 million).
The project, crucial for providing drinking water to the population of Zakho, was significantly impacted as mud and debris from the floods covered all equipment. Images reveal the extent of the damage, highlighting the severity of the flooding on the infrastructure.
Ari Ahmed, general director of Water and Sewerage at the Ministry of Municipalities and Tourism, stated, “The flooding raised the level of the Khabur River. Since the river runs through Zakho, the old water project was submerged, suffering extensive damage.”
Ahmed further explained that the affected project was responsible for producing and distributing 1,400 cubic meters (about 49,400 cubic feet) of water per hour, accounting for 30% to 35% of Zakho’s drinking water supply.
Regarding the restoration and reactivation of the project, Ahmed mentioned that teams are currently engaged in cleaning, repairing, and reorganizing the project. “It is expected that the restoration process might take a few more days before the project can be fully operational again, resuming its critical role in water production and distribution for Zakho,” he added.
The flood affected various areas in Zakho. Notably, the Ashi Shahab Bridge, a vital link connecting the Gundik neighborhood to the marketplace, was partially collapsed by the recent floodwaters.