URGENT UPDATE: Iran has announced a drastic measure to combat its acute water crisis: the water supply in Tehran will be cut off every evening until morning. This decision, confirmed by Energy Minister Abbas Aliabadi through the ISNA news agency, is already affecting residents in several districts, who must now adapt to severe water shortages during the night.
Authorities report that the city’s reservoirs require replenishment, leading to mandatory evening shutdowns of water services. Aliabadi urged the population to prepare by installing water containers and pumps to mitigate the expected reduction in water pressure. This situation is particularly pressing in Tehran, which is home to approximately 15 million residents.
As of now, water restrictions are already in place, making the storing of water a daily necessity for many families. The crisis has reached a critical point, with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian warning that without significant rainfall by next month, the country may face further rationing of water supplies. He even hinted at the possibility of evacuating Tehran if conditions worsen—a statement that experts suggest lacks practical feasibility.
The prospect of relocating the capital is contentious, as such an undertaking would require years of planning and infrastructure development. Critics of the Iranian government assert that mismanagement and prioritization of military engagements over essential services have exacerbated the current crisis. They argue that funds should have been allocated to developing alternative water supply systems instead.
The ongoing water shortages are not just a logistical issue; they have the potential to incite social unrest. Observers note rising tensions among citizens, who are frustrated with the government’s inability to address basic needs. As water becomes increasingly scarce, the risk of protests looms larger.
In summary, the water supply cuts in Tehran represent a significant escalation in Iran’s ongoing water crisis. As the situation develops, residents are left grappling with the immediate impacts on their daily lives, and the country faces mounting pressure to find sustainable solutions. Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.
