State of the World from NPR A Devastating Drought in Iran
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Aug 18, 2025 Iran faces a dire water crisis, worsened by severe drought and poor management of resources. With ten million residents at risk of running out of water, experts describe the situation as 'water bankruptcy.' The near-total desiccation of Lake Rumia and flawed agricultural policies are driving urban migration and potential political instability. Additionally, discussions highlight the need for innovative solutions and the possibility of international cooperation to tackle this pressing issue.
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Nationwide Water Bankruptcy
- Iran faces a worsening multi-year drought intensified by this summer's extreme heat and falling water levels.
- Officials describe widespread 'water bankruptcy' with lakes, rivers and groundwater critically depleted.
Water Expert Forced Into Exile
- Kava Madani fled Iran after repeated detentions and accusations for criticizing government water management.
- He now works with the United Nations Water Research Institute in Canada and warns of ecological collapse.
Water Misallocated To Agriculture
- Iran allocates over 90% of its water to agriculture despite the sector's small economic contribution.
- The policy of food self-sufficiency concentrates water use and stresses urban supplies as farmers migrate to cities.