Baghdad:Prime Minister Ali Falih Al-Zaidi chaired the inaugural session of the Supreme National Water Committee for 2026, focusing on critical water management issues. The session, held today, included the participation of ministers, advisers, and executive officials overseeing the water portfolio.

According to the Iraqi News Agency, the committee reviewed current water levels in reservoirs and dams, strategies for handling rainwater and floodwaters, and methods for managing water reserves tailored to national requirements. Several key decisions were made during the session.

The committee decided to undertake remedial measures and legal actions against sources polluting the Diyala River. It also prioritized the comprehensive inspection of dams and barrages within the Ministry of Water Resources’ investment plans, ensuring necessary funding is allocated.

Additionally, daily-wage workers at the Mosul Dam will be exempted from certain restrictions, with their employment status converted to contractual workers as part of the Permanent Works Project for treating the dam’s foundations. A central committee, led by the Ministry of Water Resources, will be formed to streamline procedures regarding conflicts between water-harvesting dam projects and other ministries’ projects.

Furthermore, the committee approved recommendations for the Regional Initiative for the Protection of the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers, ensuring effective implementation under the National High Committee for Water’s supervision. This includes forming a committee to approve high-priority projects, integrating them into the investment budget, and providing financial support for strategic projects. Measures will be taken by ministries and entities to reduce pollution in the rivers, with provinces required to install wastewater treatment plants. The Ministry of Environment will monitor these plants and address violations, while civil society organizations will support pollution-reduction efforts and environmental awareness initiatives.