The Iranian Government Warns About a Water and Electricity Crisis

• The President of Iran warns about the possibility of the evacuation of Tehran due to a water crisis.
• Water reserves in Tehran have reached historically low levels in 60 years.
• The government is utilizing artificial irrigation technology, but its effectiveness is under scrutiny.

Tehran, Iran — President of Iran Ebrahim Raisi warns that the situation is approaching a unprecedented crisis of water and energy. Water reserves have reached historically low levels, threatening the supply of drinking water and electricity production. If by the end of autumn there is no rain, Tehran may face limited water supplies, and in the long run — evacuation of the city.

According to Raisi, the situation is "extremely critical," as the water reserves of Tehran's dams have fallen to the lowest level in 60 years. The region has already experienced drought for six consecutive years, with some dams filled to less than 10% capacity.

In Iran, where the population exceeds 80 million, the energy system heavily relies on hydropower plants. As a result of declining river flows and water shortages, electricity production has decreased, forcing some power plants to suspend operations due to a lack of cooling water.

Experts point to a link between water accessibility and electricity generation, as the reduction in hydropower production constrains the operation of thermal plants. According to estimates, nearly 80% of fresh water in Iran is used in agriculture, often through inefficient irrigation methods.

In response to the crisis, Iranian officials have begun to utilize technology for artificial irrigation of crops. Nonetheless, studies show that these methods may not yield the expected results due to insufficient moisture in the soil.

Tags: Middle East/Energy