Iraqi MP Calls for Comprehensive Strategy to Upgrade Water Treatment Facilities

BAGHDAD, Iraq — A member of Iraq's parliament has called on the government to implement a comprehensive strategy to rehabilitate and develop water treatment facilities across the country. Riyadh al-Tamimi, a member of parliament, said regular laboratory tests must be conducted to ensure drinking water meets health standards. He noted that Iraq's water facilities supply drinking water to more than 45 million people, making efficiency and water quality directly linked to public health. Al-Tamimi called for mandatory weekly inspections, saying some facilities suffer from outdated operating systems and deteriorating infrastructure. According to official documents cited by the deputy, water produced at certain facilities does not comply with accepted laboratory standards. Al-Tamimi urged relevant authorities to take immediate action to prevent water that does not meet health standards from entering the supply network. Drought, declining water resources and aging facilities have compounded challenges in Iraq's drinking water sector.