Babil: The Ministry of Water Resources has initiated a significant field campaign aimed at dismantling unauthorized fish ponds in the northern sector of Babil Governorate. This effort is a part of the Ministry’s national campaign to address water quota violations across the region.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Ministry revealed that the campaign followed the identification of violations through satellite technology by the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Division. Technical teams have been actively working to drain these ponds, dismantle associated pumps, and cut off water supply sources to the areas in question.

The campaign has successfully led to the removal of more than 350 encroaching ponds so far. The Ministry noted that there have been attempts by some individuals to reactivate ponds that were previously removed, which has resulted in the initiation of legal proceedings against them.

In total, 130 lawsuits have been filed against the violators, with cases referred to the appropriate courts for further legal actions. The Ministry of Water Resources reiterated its commitment to continuing these campaigns across all governorates, in collaboration with security and judicial authorities. The use of modern technology for monitoring and surveillance is highlighted as a pivotal method for enforcing water resource distribution and preventing future violations.

The Ministry has urged citizens to comply with the guidelines issued, to ensure equitable and sustainable water distribution, the conservation of water resources, and the enhancement of the nation’s water security.