Iraq is grappling with a significant environmental crisis due to crude oil seepage into land and rivers, severely affecting agriculture and public health. The crisis is largely attributed to aging infrastructure and inadequate government response. Experts urge for comprehensive solutions to prevent further contamination and preserve essential resources.
Iraq faces an escalating environmental crisis as crude oil contamination spreads across the land and rivers, endangering agriculture, public health, and livelihoods. Once a source of national pride, crude oil now represents an invisible threat, poisoning vital resources and harming the people who depend on them for survival. Contaminated fields and rivers tell a harrowing story of environmental destruction across the country.
Specifically, in the Al-Muslaha village located in the Makhoul Mountains of the Baiji district, residents report an alarming presence of crude oil seeping into the Tigris River, causing ominous black patches across the land. Mahmoud Al-Qaisi, a retired Baiji refinery employee, noted, “These oil wells have been here for more than 50 years. No government has moved to exploit them or even study them to determine their nature.” He lamented the lost potential for investment and eco-tourism in the area due to neglect and the persistent threat to the Tigris River.
The environmental impact is largely attributed to dilapidated infrastructure from years of conflict with ISIS. Old pipelines have been damaged extensively and have frequently faced sabotage and illegal oil extraction. Muhammad Majid, the director of the Environment Department in Saladin, explained that ISIS exploited the oil fields to fund their operations, which led to extensive pollution, particularly after pipelines were damaged or detonated. Following the liberation of these areas, attempts to manage the crisis, including burying storage tanks, were ineffective due to the resurgence of oil residues with rainfall.
The environmental damage has severe repercussions for local wildlife and agriculture. Residents, like Ali Al-Ubaidi, report regular incidents of sheep and birds dying due to toxic substances contributing to the pollution of the Tigris River, a vital water source. Saadoun Abdullah, a local farmer, mentioned how extensive land destruction has occurred due to oil flow from nearby fields, further undermining Iraq’s agricultural base.
Despite the urgency of the situation, the Iraqi government’s response has been inadequate, lacking comprehensive planning and investment. Weak security measures, aging pipelines, and insufficient services have exacerbated the crisis. Environmental and energy specialists advocate for a thorough revamping of the oil pipeline network, implementing sophisticated monitoring systems to prevent leaks, and substantial rehabilitation of affected environments.
Current government actions remain reactive, often limited to temporary solutions like cleanup efforts. Ali Khorsheed, former head of the Kirkuk Environment Department Directorate, highlighted that ignoring fundamental issues—such as upgrading deteriorating pipelines—has only perpetuated the crisis. He stated, “The crisis recurs because the underlying issues remain,” underscoring the need for long-term strategies.
The persistent issue of oil leaks poses a threat not only to localized communities but also to overall water and food security across multiple provinces. The lack of serious governmental intervention contributes to the escalating environmental disaster, prompting growing calls from residents and experts alike for urgent and sustainable action to protect Iraq’s natural resources and inhabitants.
In summary, Iraq is facing a severe environmental crisis exacerbated by oil contamination that threatens agricultural viability and public health. The plight of the Makhoul Mountains and surrounding regions illustrates a dire need for government intervention and comprehensive infrastructure rehabilitation. Without immediate action, the lasting impacts of this environmental disaster may compromise the health and livelihoods of millions, highlighting the necessity for improved governance and strategic planning in managing natural resources.
Original Source: shafaq.com
