Kurdistan, a region known for its rich natural beauty and diverse ecosystems, is currently confronting a serious environmental crisis. The absence of fundamental environmental policies and regulations, coupled with the policies of the Iranian government, is pushing the region toward a real disaster. This essay highlights some of the urgent environmental concerns in Kurdistan that require immediate attention.
Neglecting these issues not only threatens the region’s ecosystem but also endangers the lives of its inhabitants.
I. Forest Fires in the Zagros Mountains:
Large forest fires in the Zagros Mountains are a frequent and devastating occurrence in Kurdistan. These fires not only destroy valuable ecosystems but also pose a significant threat to human lives. While these forest fires are discussed widely on social media, the destruction extends far beyond this phenomenon, affecting the entire ecological balance of the region.
II. Lake Zariwar Contamination:
The contamination of Lake Zariwar in Marivan by sewage has triggered another environmental crisis in Kurdistan. This contamination has led to the uncontrolled growth of water lilies and the death of lake fish. The absence of proper policies and government oversight is evident in this tragedy.
III. Wildlife Destruction:
The absence of proper laws and regulations has also resulted in rampant hunting in protected areas, doubling the risk of native animal extinction and contributing to wildlife destruction. This not only harms the region’s biodiversity but also threatens the ecological balance.
IV. Water Pollution and Diseases:
The influx of human waste and industrial and agricultural sewage into water sources has led to various diseases among the people of Kurdistan. This highlights the negligence of authorities in safeguarding the region’s water quality and the well-being of its residents.
V. Air and Water Pollution and Health Risks:
Incidents such as tanker accidents on substandard roads contribute to both water and air pollution, resulting in exacerbated diseases. These environmental hazards further endanger the physical and mental health of the population, showcasing the dire need for action.
The environmental issues in Kurdistan are not merely local concerns; they are a matter of global significance. The Iranian government’s policies, or rather the lack thereof, have endangered the nature of Kurdistan and the lives of its people. Addressing these problems is of utmost importance, as neglecting them would be a betrayal to the people of Kurdistan and the environment itself. Urgent action, including the implementation of environmental policies and regulations, is needed to protect the fragile ecosystems of Kurdistan and ensure the well-being of its inhabitants.
Author: Roonak Hosseini
Translator: Roozbeh Fakhari