Water reserves across the Kurdistan Region have surged past one billion cubic meters. Weeks of heavy rain and snowfall caused the sharp increase. The rise marks a strong recovery in water storage and eases fears of summer shortages.
In Shaqlawa district, Aqoban Dam reached full capacity and began overflowing after intense rain and snow. The overflow clearly showed the season’s impact on water resources. It also reflected a wider rise in reservoir levels across the Region.
Additionally, Aqoban Dam is a strategic project of the Kurdistan Regional Government’s ninth cabinet. Authorities built the dam at a cost of 8.1 billion Iraqi dinars. It stands 31 meters high and covers 400,000 square meters. The dam stores up to 2.6 million cubic meters of water.
Furthermore, officials designed the project to serve multiple goals. Beyond storage, the dam supports irrigation and raises groundwater levels. It also reduces flood risks and protects the local environment. In addition, it aims to revive fish resources and promote tourism in the Shaqlawa area.
Therefore, the overflow at Aqoban came as water levels rose sharply at other dams. Official figures show total stored water now exceeds one billion cubic meters. Farmers and environmental experts welcomed the development. Authorities say the increase helps confront drought conditions.
Moreover, in Duhok province, Khans Dam overflowed after 24 millimeters of rain in 24 hours. The dam is the second largest in the province. It holds seven million cubic meters of water. It supports agriculture, livestock, tourism, and groundwater recharge in the Shekhan district. Built under the ninth cabinet, it stands 34.5 meters high and stretches 195 meters long.
In Erbil province, Smaquli Dam in Koya district also reached full capacity. Built in 2017, the dam stores eight million cubic meters of water. The district recorded 29 millimeters of rain in one day. Seasonal rainfall reached about 330 millimeters, compared to less than 200 millimeters last year.
Additionally, at Dukan Dam, water levels rose by 4.39 meters after two waves of rain and snow. Engineer Kochar Jamal, the dam’s director, said that rainfall reached 322 millimeters. The same period last year recorded only 98 millimeters. He said inflows increased sevenfold. Authorities limited outflows to drinking water to protect reserves.
From Shaqlawa to Duhok and from Koya to Dukan, rising water levels signal a clear seasonal shift. Officials say the surge offers renewed hope for agriculture, environmental protection, and long-term security across the Kurdistan Region.
