Baghdad: The Green Iraq Observatory has raised alarms over the likelihood of foul odors reemerging in Baghdad in the coming days, signaling a failure to effectively tackle pollution at its source. This concern casts doubt on the claims made by relevant authorities regarding their efforts to mitigate pollution in the region.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Observatory highlighted in a statement that this issue is an annual occurrence in the capital city and has started to impact nearby governorates. The persistent problem is attributed to sulfur emissions from oil and industrial facilities, as well as unregulated factories on the outskirts of Baghdad. Additionally, indiscriminate waste burning combined with unfavorable weather conditions exacerbates the situation.

The Observatory was critical of the authorities, predicting that they will soon announce having addressed the pollution causes in Baghdad. However, it expressed skepticism about these claims, pointing out that interventions typically occur only after issues arise. The Observatory further criticized the lack of stringent measures against pollution sources, which allows these entities to resume operations, continuing to discharge harmful fumes into the environment.