Farmers block bridge
Najaf rice farmers protest water shortages
NAJAF – Amber rice farmers from Najaf’s Dabiniya, Suwariya, Shallal, and Janabiyat fields protested on Wednesday in Al-Mashkhab over losses due to government failures to increase water allocations. The protesters blocked the Dabiniya Bridge at Al-Mashkhab, halting vehicle traffic to pressure officials into meeting their demands.
The farmers demanded increased water levels for their rice fields as previously promised by the government and called for specialized committees from the irrigation and agriculture departments to assess the lands affected by water shortages. Najaf’s Al-Mashkhab has long been famous for growing Amber rice.
Ali Ahmed, one of the protesters, told 964media, “We planted amber rice based on promises of water allocations within the agricultural plan. We’ve lost thousands of dollars on plowing, seeds, and fertilizer.” “My land has been irrigated only once so far, and I am significantly behind due to the water scarcity. We will not withdraw until our demands are met.”
Food production in Iraq relies heavily on smallholder agriculture, which traditionally meets the population’s needs. However, the sustainability of the agricultural sector has been compromised by conflict, climate change, and water scarcity. Communities known for rice and wheat cultivation are particularly struggling due to water shortages.
Amber rice, planted in June and harvested in October, is renowned for its distinctive fragrance and is often featured during special occasions. It is a vital part of Iraq’s agricultural heritage, with “amber” in the Iraqi dialect referring to any sweet-smelling scent.
Cultivation of Amber rice in Najaf increased to over 19,000 acres this year, rebounding from last year’s severe restrictions that limited planting to just 778 acres due to drought and water shortages.
Iraq faces severe environmental challenges, including rising temperatures and water scarcity, making it the fifth most affected country by climate change globally. According to reports from the United Nations and the Iraqi Ministry of Environment, Iraq loses approximately 100 square kilometers of land to desertification annually, underscoring the urgent need for initiatives like Baghdad Forests.
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