Iranian President Mesud Pezeshkian has highlighted the country's serious threat of drought. Stressing that rainfall in Tehran has dipped below critical levels, Pezeshkian warned, 'If rain doesn't fall soon, we will be compelled to evacuate the capital.' The President, noting the rapid depletion of water resources across Iran, cautioned that if urgent measures are not taken, a major humanitarian crisis could ensue.
Iranian President Mesud Pezeshkian has raised the alarm over the country's water crisis and escalating drought threat. Pezeshkian warned, 'Iran is currently grappling with natural crises such as diminishing rainfall and inadequate water resources. This situation could have serious repercussions.'
The President indicated that should the rainfall not persist, water restrictions would be imposed in Tehran from next month onwards. He expressed his concern, stating, 'If we don't receive any rain during this period, our water resources will be depleted and we will be forced to evacuate Tehran.'
The five main dams — Emir Kebir, Lar, Mamlu, Talikan, and Latyan — that supply water to the capital city of Tehran are among the regions most affected by the drought.
There has been a noticeable decline in rainfall across Iran for the past five years. This year in Tehran, rainfall has plummeted by approximately 40% compared to seasonal norms. The lack of rain during the spring and summer months, in particular, has led to a serious reduction in both surface and groundwater resources.
The Tehran Provincial Water Authority announced on July 20th that the ongoing drought over the past five years has brought reservoir water levels to the lowest point in the last century. It was noted that the city has been experiencing periodic water outages during the summer months.