Tankers illegally dump oil waste near Dukan Dam, risking pollution

SULAIMANI,— Large amounts of waste oil have been illegally dumped in a dry stream near Dukan Lake and Dam in Sulaimani governorate, raising concerns over potential contamination of the lake’s water supply.

Environmentalists warn that the spill could threaten drinking water for more than two million people who rely on Dukan Lake.

Witnesses in the area reported seeing tankers carrying oil spill their contents in the stream. The vehicles were reportedly registered in cities across the Kurdistan Region, and locals said the oil likely came from regional oil fields.

Environmental experts described the dumping as a serious environmental hazard. “We believe that a company, a factory, or an oil refinery may be behind this,” said a local environmentalist, calling the incident a disaster for the region.

The forest police confirmed that the spilled substance is waste oil, a heavy and hazardous material. Multiple tankers were observed discharging the waste, although authorities have not yet identified the responsible party.

Activists warned that rainfall could carry the oil into the Dukan Dam, threatening aquatic life and the local drinking water supply.

Residents in the surrounding area say that although Kurdistan authorities have been informed, no immediate steps have been taken to contain the spill and prevent it from reaching the lake.

The spill site is located roughly three kilometers from the Dukan reservoir, with contamination stretching over 500 meters along the valley.

As of Tuesday, cleanup efforts had not yet begun, but local environments said a decision had been made to deploy teams to remove the oil.

Environmental activists highlighted the broader risks. They say this is not just about drinking water but also poses a danger to livestock, crops, and wildlife in the area.

Dukan Dam, which holds more than 50 million cubic meters of water, is a key resource for the region. It supports fish populations and attracts tourists.

Authorities have also been carrying out environmental initiatives to maintain fish populations, releasing 250,000 fingerlings in August and 70,000 fish in September to replenish the lake’s ecosystem.

Environmental groups continue to monitor the situation closely as they prepare cleanup plans and investigate who is responsible for the dumping.

The question now is when the Kurdistan Region authorities will begin the cleanup, which will require significant time and expense. Time is critical, as the rainy season is already underway.

(Credit: NRT | 964 Media | Agencies)