Basra: Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, called for mobilizing all efforts to complete the Al-Badaa Canal project and deliver water to Basra Governorate.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Sudani chaired a meeting to follow up on the project's progress. The meeting was attended by the Minister of Water Resources, the Head of the Advisory Board of the Prime Minister's Office, several ministry officials, and representatives of the companies involved in the project.

The meeting reviewed the current status of the project and identified the obstacles that have delayed its completion over the past years. A critical 65-kilometer section, passing through sandy and gypsum areas, was noted, with 45 kilometers of this section already completed.

Officials also discussed the water pipeline project as an alternative amid ongoing water scarcity, alongside the technical and financial measures required to complete the project. Al-Sudani directed the completion of customs exemption procedures for all materials entering the project and sought proposals to amend the Cabinet decision concerning the Al-Badaa Canal. This includes allowing for new components and securing the necessary funding.

Emphasizing the urgent completion of the pumping station in the critical area, Al-Sudani also stressed the provision of electricity to the station. He urged that all efforts be mobilized to finalize the project and ensure water delivery to Basra.

The meeting also addressed the broader water situation across central and southern Iraq, focusing on monitoring water releases from neighboring countries and continuing diplomatic efforts to find sustainable solutions to the water crisis.