Infrastructure struggling

Dhi Qar residents in late-night protest against worsening electricity supply

2024-08-28 | 10:25

DHI QAR — Late-night protests erupted on Tuesday in the areas of Al-Aseebeh, Al-Yasariya, and Al-Karmashiya in the Karma Bani Saeed district, southern Dhi Qar, in response to deteriorating electricity supply and unstable operating hours. Demonstrators have threatened to escalate their actions if the power supply issues persist and if the electrical network, installed in 1970, is not maintained and updated.

Mohammed Shater, a protester, told 964media, “The residents of Al-Aseebeh, Al-Yasariya, and Al-Karmashiya organized a protest to express their frustration with the poor electricity supply, low voltage, and the deteriorating state of the power network.”

Shater added that these areas are suffering from severe problems with the electrical grid, which has not been upgraded since its installation. “Many of the electricity poles are at risk of collapsing, the cables have become poor conductors, causing low voltage, and there are not enough transformers to meet demand, especially during the summer months,” he said.

Protesters are calling on authorities to address the situation and acknowledge the sacrifices of the area’s residents, “who have lost many of their sons defending the country and its sanctities,” Shater stated.

Although a new power station has been established in Al-Karmashiya, the supply hours remain minimal from the energy distribution authorities in Dhi Qar governorate. “We warn that if the power outages and low voltage continue, and if the relevant authorities do not respond, the protests will continue until the deteriorating electricity situation is improved,” Shater concluded.

Iraq’s power grid faces persistent outages, particularly during the scorching summer months when temperatures can reach 50°C (122°F) and demand peaks. Most households receive only a few hours of electricity per day, relying on private generators if they can afford them.

The chronic electricity shortages have sparked widespread protests across Iraq. Every year, Iraqi cities witness significant demonstrations against frequent and prolonged power outages.