Tehran's Water Crisis: A Growing Concern

Iran is experiencing a critical water shortage, with the longest dry spell in 60 years. Rama Habibi, a water expert from the Tehran Regional Water Company, shared this alarming news.

Drought Statistics

• Five consecutive years of minimal rainfall
• 2023 rainfall: 48 millimeters
• 2024 rainfall: 1.9 millimeters
• Long-term average: Significantly lower than usual

Impact on Dams and Cities

The drought is severely affecting dams across Iran:

• Karkheh Dam: Stopped electricity production due to low water levels
• Karaj and Latian Dams: Running critically low

Cities like Mashhad, Kerman, and Yazd are struggling:

• Water rationing in effect
• Farmers abandoning their land due to lack of water for crops

Long-Term Concerns

Experts warn that if the situation continues, Tehran could face serious water problems in the next decade.

• Current dam levels: Only one-third of what they should be
• Mashhad: Full rationing in place
• Kerman: Fields no longer being farmed

Broader Implications

This is not just a short-term issue. The rain is not returning as it once did, and water is leaving the dams faster than it is replenished. The crisis affects:

• Drinking water supply
• Agriculture
• Electricity production
• Daily life