“Alhurra America” Highlights Reports from “Ahwaz Media Network” on Environmental Pollution

In a recent report, Alhurra America shed light on an investigation by the Ahwaz Media Network regarding deliberate environmental pollution in Al-Ahwaz, which is considered one of the strategies of the Iranian occupation.

The report, titled “Al-Ahwaz: Iran’s Arabs Face Oppression and the ‘Cursed Land’”, examines the severe air pollution plaguing Al-Ahwaz. This pollution stems from various industrial factors, including oil flaring and waste disposal, causing unprecedented contamination that directly impacts the health of residents.

The report also quoted Davood Mirshkar, Director General of Environmental Protection in Al-Ahwaz, who stated:
“The approximately 50 oil gas flares in Al-Ahwaz are among the largest contributors to air pollution.”

Despite apparent efforts to reduce pollution, these flares continue to burn around the clock, releasing harmful gases that degrade air quality and increase the risk of chronic respiratory diseases and heart conditions among the population.

Mirshkar’s remarks highlight the inadequacy and inefficiency of current environmental policies, such as the “Kahab” gas collection project at fuel stations, which has faced significant delays in implementation.

Additionally, the region suffers from the use of heavy fuel oil (mazut) in power plants, which exacerbates pollution levels despite attempts to transition to natural gas.

The situation in Al-Ahwaz is further worsened by repeated decisions of the Iranian occupation authorities to establish large industrial projects, such as factories and power plants, near residential areas, without consideration for their environmental or health consequences.

Moreover, the widespread burning of sugarcane fields in the region significantly contributes to pollution, releasing massive amounts of smoke and harmful air pollutants that directly affect the population. While Iranian authorities periodically announce intentions to reduce pollution, these efforts remain confined to public statements.

The Ahwaz Media Network plays a crucial role in amplifying the voices of Al-Ahwaz residents to the outside world, targeting governments and Arab and Western media alike.