Proposals submitted
Ain Al-Tamr strives to restore historic springs with new wells
KARBALA — Ain Al-Tamr, a city west of Karbala, is taking measures to revive its five famous natural springs, integral to the city’s heritage. Local efforts have seen partial success with water returning to “Ain Al-Seeb” and “Ain Al-Zarqa,” though “Ain Al-Sawda,” “Ain Al-Hamra,” and “Ain Matuhuma” remain dry.
Raed Al-Mashhadani, the district administrator of Ain Al-Tamr, explained the steps being taken. “A detailed proposal has been submitted to the country’s Ministry of Water Resources to revive the five springs, which have gradually dried up due to factors like desertification, reduced rainfall, and declining levels of Lake Razaza, along with significant agricultural expansion in the area,” he stated.
Desertification is a major issue in Iraq, exacerbated by climate change, human activities, and the region’s natural aridity. Experts note that the decline in spring water levels is not solely due to climate change but also the result of over 1,000 wells drilled in the area impacting groundwater levels.
“In 2010, we noticed a decline in the water levels of the springs. We conducted an experiment by closing some of the wells near the springs, and the water levels began to rise. This indicates that the drilling and continuous use of wells for irrigation have had a significant impact on the springs,” said Hassan Al-Sharifi, a former water resources advisor.
Iraq’s aging water infrastructure, characterized by leaks and inefficiencies, and its outdated irrigation systems, contribute to water wastage. Despite modernization efforts, many of Iraq’s canals and irrigation networks, built during the 20th century, have not been adequately maintained.
Locals have raised concerns about concrete work around the springs, fearing it might convert them into pools, thus altering these natural landmarks. The city faces the challenge of balancing spring restoration with agricultural expansion, which now covers thousands of acres.
Al-Mashhadani noted the presence of approximately 1,000 wells in Ain Al-Tamr, affecting both desert and orchard areas. “We coordinated with several humanitarian organizations, and efforts have temporarily restored water to Ain Al-Seeb and Ain Al-Zarqa by drilling wells near these springs and using pumps to deliver water,” he added.
Al-Sharifi stressed the need for better control and modern irrigation techniques. “The problem isn’t just the drilling of wells, but the lack of control over their use. Many wells don’t have pumps, and their owners use them continuously. It’s necessary to place locks on the wells and regulate their use,” he emphasized.
The water crisis in Iraq is compounded by external geopolitical factors, internal mismanagement, and the impacts of climate change, affecting the vital resources provided by the Tigris and Euphrates rivers.
Severe water shortages plague Karbala neighborhoods
