Erbil environment directorate takes legal action against polluting generators

ERBIL — The Erbil Environment Directorate has filed lawsuits against five private generator owners, accusing them of flouting environmental regulations. The owners ignored official guidelines and caused pollution in their surrounding areas, according to Dilshad Hirani, head of the Erbil Environment Directorate.

Hirani told 964media that these generator operators violated environmental laws by failing to adhere to standards, causing excessive noise and air pollution, and neglecting cleanliness around their generators. “These individuals were previously warned about their violations, but they failed to comply, which led to the lawsuits,” he stated.

The legal action is based on Directive No. 2 of 2023, which enforces stricter penalties for environmental violations under the Kurdistan Region’s Environmental Protection and Improvement Law No. 8 of 2008.

Days ago, Hirani revealed to 964media that approximately 170 complaints had been filed by citizens against private generator operators, most of which involved smoke pollution and failure to follow regulations. The Environment Directorate has initiated investigations into these complaints and is working to address the concerns.

Erbil city has 1,173 private generators currently operating. These generators, particularly during national power outages, have been identified as a significant source of environmental and noise pollution.

The Kurdistan Region has struggled to provide a consistent government electricity supply. Although it operates 15 power plants, including hydroelectric, gas, and diesel facilities, residents rely heavily on private generators, paying monthly fees per ampere. Currently, more than 7,000 private generators are in operation to supplement the region’s energy needs, creating substantial noise pollution and contributing to significant environmental challenges in urban areas.