Baghdad: The Ministry of Water Resources is exploring a project to develop the Tharthar irrigation canal and increase its capacity. Minister of Water Resources, Muthanna al-Tamimi, chaired a meeting that included the Undersecretary for Technical Affairs and a number of directors general. The meeting addressed the project to develop the Tharthar Irrigation Canal and ways to improve its operational efficiency, thereby strengthening the country's water resources management system.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the ministry stated in a press release: "The meeting discussed the project to expand the Tharthar Irrigation Canal and increase its capacity to 250 cubic meters per second, with the aim of enhancing water releases into the Euphrates River in accordance with approved technical and engineering standards and specifications."

The minister emphasized: "The Tharthar Irrigation Canal development project is considered a vital strategic project, given the canal's pivotal role in supporting the water resources management system and securing additional supplies for the Euphrates River, especially during periods of water scarcity and high water demand."

He pointed out that "increasing the canal's capacity will contribute to enhancing the operational flexibility of the water system, improving water conveyance efficiency, supporting agricultural, environmental, and drinking water needs, and increasing the canal's readiness to accommodate water releases according to the ministry's approved operational plans."

The minister directed the relevant technical authorities to prepare the necessary studies and designs for the project and to expedite the implementation of the required solutions according to the highest engineering and technical standards, ensuring the achievement of the project's objectives, enhancing the efficiency of the water system, and supporting water security in the country.