The already critical precipitation situation in Iran has significantly deteriorated, especially in Tehran Province, according to a report from the Ministry of Energy.
More than one hundred days into the current water year, nationwide rainfall remains unsatisfactory, with a 44.3% decrease compared to the long-term average.
In Tehran Province, there has been a staggering 67% reduction in precipitation compared to the long-term average for the current water year. The available water volume in the reservoirs of the five dams supplying water to Tehran Province has dropped to less than 300 million cubic meters, posing a significant risk given the current climatic conditions.
Mohsen Ardekani, CEO of Tehran Province Water and Wastewater Company, noted that despite meteorological predictions, this year's autumn rainfall in Tehran has fallen by 55%. He stressed the importance of effective demand and consumption management in securing Tehran's water supply. Ardekani urged citizens in Tehran to actively participate in water consumption management, calling for a 10% reduction in consumption and the avoidance of unnecessary usage to ensure a sustainable water supply in the province.
The persistent drought in Iran has led to criticism of the government's environmental mismanagement. Reports indicate that a quarter of Iran's farmers have lost their livelihoods in the past seven years due to water scarcity, resulting in economic impacts, soil erosion, desertification, and hazardous dust storms affecting approximately half of Iran's population, according to the country's health ministry.