Fearing health risks, residents protest lingering odor in Sulaymaniyah’s Sharazoor district

SULAYMANIYAH — A persistent foul odor, described as similar to household gas, has plagued Sharazoor District in Sulaymaniyah Governorate for more than a year, raising alarm among residents concerned about possible health risks. On Friday, activists, community leaders and religious scholars demanded urgent action to address the issue, which they say poses a particular threat to children, the elderly and people with respiratory conditions.

The odor is primarily concentrated in parts of Sharazoor District, as well as the Warmawa and Arabat sub-districts, including nearby villages.

Protesters gathered outside Nali Park in Sharazoor to voice their frustration. “This foul smell has been an issue since last year, especially noticeable in the mornings. It resembles household gas and severely impacts children, the elderly, and individuals with breathing problems,” protest organizer Sarbast Burhan told 964media. “Efforts were made last year to address it, but the problem has returned, causing widespread concern.”

Sharazoor resident Kamal Kaka Ahmed echoed those worries. “Specialist doctors have warned that the smell could have long-term health effects on everyone in the area and may lead to various illnesses. Authorities need to intervene immediately,” he said.

Officials previously identified the source of the odor. On Dec. 6, 2024, Sulaymaniyah Directorate of Environment spokesperson Mustafa Juma announced that an investigation traced the smell to emissions from a local factory. “After a thorough field investigation, we identified the source of the odor affecting Sharazoor, Warmawa, and Tanjaro and implemented measures to address it,” Juma said at the time. Residents, however, report that the odor persists and continue to call for lasting solutions.