Residents of Iran’s Sistan and Baluchestan province are urging their government to take action against Afghanistan’s water diversion from the Helmand River. Despite the Taliban’s assurances, recent satellite images confirm ongoing diversions into Godzareh. The situation is exacerbated by the Taliban’s failure to fulfill commitments under the 1973 water-sharing treaty, leaving the Iranian population in need of urgent assistance.
Residents of Sistan and Baluchestan province in Iran are appealing to President Masoud Pezeshkian and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to take immediate action regarding their significant water shortages, which they attribute to Afghanistan’s non-compliance with water-sharing agreements. They fear losing yet another opportunity to secure their rightful water share from the Helmand River, crucial for their survival during prolonged drought conditions.
Recent satellite imagery has revealed that the Taliban continues to divert water from the Kamal Khan Dam into the salt flats of Godzareh, contrary to previous assurances given to Iran that such diversions had ceased. This situation persists despite Taliban claims that insufficient rainfall and drought conditions were impeding the release of Iran’s designated water share, creating further tension between the two nations.
Iranian officials have stated that the Taliban’s refusal to fulfill their obligations under the 1973 Hirmand River water treaty is unacceptable. They have called for adherence to the legally binding terms of this treaty, reiterating that Afghanistan must release the agreed-upon amount of water. Initial hopes for a resolution arose with recent heavy rains and flooding in Afghanistan, yet these hopes have been dashed by ongoing diversions.
In conclusion, residents of Iran’s Sistan and Baluchestan province are increasingly frustrated by the continued diversion of the Helmand River’s waters by the Taliban. Government officials are now demanding firm action to uphold the 1973 water-sharing agreement, emphasizing that it is essential for their community’s well-being. The situation remains critical as Iran awaits compliance from Afghanistan regarding its water rights.
Original Source: ifpnews.com
