Baghdad: The Ministry of Environment has announced the closure of an illegal station that was found discharging waste directly into the Tigris River. This move comes as part of ongoing efforts to protect one of the country's vital water sources from pollution.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, a statement from the ministry revealed that a field operation led by the Baghdad Environment Directorate uncovered a facility engaged in vehicle washing, lubrication, and oil changes, which was directly releasing oily waste into the river. This activity resulted in oil slicks and contributed to environmental pollution near the Al-Doura refinery.

The ministry's statement further explained that the discovery was made following a complaint from the Oil Pipelines Company about the presence of oil slicks in the Tigris River. A field inspection by the Baghdad Environment Directorate, in collaboration with the Technical Department, confirmed the source of pollution.

Legal procedures were swiftly enacted, leading to the opening of a judicial investigation against those responsible for the violations. The Baghdad/Karkh Environmental Police, alongside the Al-Doura Municipality and local security forces, took decisive action by sealing off the illegal site with concrete blocks and initiating legal proceedings against the violators.