Iraqi environmental group says Euphrates water unfit for drinking and fishing

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Green Environment Observatory said in a report published on Wednesday that the Euphrates River is undergoing serious environmental deterioration and that its water can no longer be used for drinking. The organization added that the water is also unsuitable for aquatic life and fishing. According to the report, the Euphrates recorded its lowest water levels in decades in central and southern Iraqi cities. The observatory said the discharge of hospital waste directly into the river, the heavy spread of algae and water lilies, and the flow of agricultural drainage water had sharply increased pollution. The report found that chemical concentrations have exceeded internationally permitted limits, and that main canals such as Shu'ayb al-Dhikir and Balikh are carrying fertilizer- and salt-laden agricultural drainage into the river. It also noted that Iraq has lost more than 500 water buffaloes in past years due to water shortages, and that 70 percent of agricultural land has been taken out of production because of insufficient water supplies. The observatory stressed that recent water releases from neighboring countries have not provided a lasting solution to drought and desertification in southern Iraq. No further details on government response or planned measures were immediately available.