Iraq activates water plan for Karbala ahead of Ashura pilgrim influx

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Ministry of Water Resources said on Wednesday it has activated a comprehensive preventive plan to ensure water and essential services for the millions of pilgrims expected in Karbala for the Ashura commemoration marking the martyrdom of Imam Hussein. According to the ministry, the plan covers the uninterrupted delivery of raw water to treatment plants, the operation of irrigation projects and the efficient functioning of service infrastructure throughout the pilgrimage period. It also includes a large-scale cleaning and maintenance campaign on the city's canals and drainage lines, aimed at removing sediment, aquatic plants and blockages to increase the capacity of the water network. The ministry said water and service needs along the entry routes used by the Husayni convoys, including accommodation areas, will be met for the duration of the visit. Tankers, support vehicles and specialized equipment have been placed on standby, and area-level cleaning work is continuing. The ministry said it would maintain uninterrupted water and service delivery from the start to the end of the pilgrimage.