Demonstrations in Khuzestan cities to protest water shortage

Images posted on social media show demonstrations in various cities in Khuzestan province protesting the lack of electricity, water, and the transfer of water to other areas. In some videos, gunfire can be heard.

A number of cities in Khuzestan province were the scene of public demonstrations on the evening of Thursday, July 15, protesting against the lack of water and the transfer of water to other areas, as well as frequent power outages.

Images posted on social media indicate that protest marches have taken place in Susangerd, Ahvaz, Shadegan, Dasht-e Azadegan, Hamidieh, Abadan, and Mahshahr.

According to Fars News Agency, protesters in the cities of Mahshahr, Kot Abdullah, and Mullasani blocked roads and burned car tires.

Fereydoun Bandari, acting governor of Mahshahr Port, said in an interview with Fars: "There was no serious blocking of the route from Mahshahr Port to Imam Khomeini Port, and only a few young people took action following a call on social media due to water shortage problems."

According to him, with the presence of police and firefighters, the aforementioned route was reopened and usable again.

Fars writes that Khuzestan protesters demanded that the problem of water shortage in the province be addressed and that the rivers and wetlands be provided with the right to water.

News published on social media indicates a slowdown in internet speeds in Khuzestan, indiscriminate shooting by security forces, and the declaration of a state of emergency by military forces.

In videos posted on social media, slogans can be heard such as "They looted us in the name of religion," "The river is thirsty - it wants its water," and "Our lives and blood will be sacrificed for Karun."

The human rights website HRANA writes that during the Ahvaz protests, a person named Reza Salamat was arrested by security forces and taken to an unknown location.

These protests are taking place at a time when in recent weeks, the problem of water shortages during the peak of the summer heat has caused excessive pressure on people, livestock keepers, and farmers, and in some areas has led to their protests against the mismanagement of water resources.

In addition to water shortages, frequent power outages have also added to the problem, making things especially difficult for the people of Khuzestan.

In recent weeks, various protest rallies have been held by workers, farmers, and livestock keepers. Frequent power outages, water shortages, problems caused by the fifth wave of COVID-19, and economic hardships have been the causes of these protests.

Source: DW