Sulaymaniyah authorities have started imposing fines on residents who waste water, as the province struggles with a worsening shortage. Water Department Director Bakhtiar Taher announced that fines will start at 50,000 dinars, equal to about 34 US dollars.
He explained that activities like washing vehicles in front of homes will lead to penalties. Furthermore, unpaid fines will be added directly to the offender’s monthly water bill to ensure compliance. Taher stressed that water is a vital national resource and requires responsible use from everyone.
The city has already reduced water distribution to once every five days, down from once every three days. This change comes as household wells have dried up across many neighborhoods. The situation reflects a broader water crisis affecting the Kurdistan Region.
Rainfall has declined nearly 40 percent since the 1990s, and major reservoirs such as the Dukan Dam now hold only 24 percent of their full capacity. This is the lowest level in two decades.
Additionally, reduced water inflows from upstream dams in neighboring countries have worsened the problem. The shortage now threatens both agriculture and public health throughout the Region.