Iran is grappling with an unprecedented water crisis, as severe drought conditions threaten the water supply in major cities like Tehran and Mashhad. The situation has reached a critical point, with officials warning of potential water rationing and even evacuation if conditions do not improve.

Tehran's Water Woes

In Tehran, the capital city, water levels in key reservoirs have plummeted to alarming lows. The Latian Dam, a primary water source for the city, is operating at less than 10% capacity. Similarly, the Karaj Dam, which serves both Tehran and Alborz provinces, is in dire straits, holding only 8% of its capacity. President Masoud Pezeshkian has cautioned that without significant rainfall, the city may face water rationing, and in a worst-case scenario, evacuation. "If rationing doesn't work, we may have to evacuate Tehran," Pezeshkian stated, sparking criticism from former officials and the public.

Mashhad's Dire Situation

The crisis extends beyond Tehran. In Mashhad, Iran's second-largest city, water levels in dam reservoirs have dropped below 3%. Hossein Esmaeilian, the chief executive of the local water company, emphasized the necessity of managing water consumption, as the city relies heavily on its dwindling dam reserves. Authorities have urged residents to reduce water usage by 20% to avoid severe rationing.

Broader Implications and Causes

Nationwide, 19 major dams have effectively run dry, exacerbating the crisis. The Iranian government attributes the water shortages not only to the lack of rainfall but also to outdated infrastructure and recent conflicts. The 12-day conflict with Israel, which included strikes on Tehran's northern neighborhoods, has been cited as a contributing factor. Additionally, the politicization of environmental management and the appointment of unqualified officials have been criticized by local media as exacerbating the crisis.