Erbil authorities penalized 65 generator owners in 2024 for using ‘low-quality fuel’ and violating operating schedules

ERBIL — Erbil authorities have imposed fines ranging from one to three million Iraqi dinars ($663 to $1,989) on 65 generator owners in 2024 for using low-quality fuel and failing to adhere to designated operating schedules, Erbil Qaymaqam Nabaz Abdulhamid announced on Monday.

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.

In mid-December 2024, the Erbil Environment Directorate 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.

Regarding oversight activities, Abdulhamid stated in a press conference that 859 establishments were closed in the past year for failing to comply with health and safety regulations.

Additionally, 159 tons of expired food products were confiscated and scientifically disposed of.