Tehran (IP) - Iran's Energy Minister Reza Ardakanian stated that the Ministry of Energy aims to take advantage of recent floods to extract freshwater in drought-stricken cities of Iran, like the southern province of Hormozgan.

Iran Press/Iran news: On the sideline of today's cabinet session, Iran's Energy Minister referred to the recent flash floods in Sistan and Baluchestan province, southern Iran, adding, "The last twelve years of drought in Iran have led to a false idea that the country lacks preparation and planning when it comes to heavy precipitation. But that's not true. Mid-March 2019 Iran floods brought more attention to the river dredging projects, which have had a positive impact."

He also underlined, "Fortunately, we did not have any casualties in the Sistan and Balouchestan floods due to our readiness and cooperation with the people." 

Iran's Energy Minister further explained that the precipitation in Sistan and Baluchestan has increased by 40 percent since the beginning of the current water year (mid-September), and also there has been 14% more precipitation compared to the same period last year. 

Reza Ardakanian added that the Ministry of Energy is ready to minimize damage under the current extremes conditions in the country (both floods and droughts) and maximize the use of freshwater, especially in Hormozgan province, where drought is always causing problems.

"Water level of Hormozgan Dam is currently at a good level and the province will hopefully have a calm summer next year," he noted.

101/211/216

Read More:

Photo: Flood relief ongoing in Sistan, Baluchestan province

Majlis ready to help flood-stricken people of Sistan, Baluchestan province