Erbil, Kurdistan Region — On Monday, Prime Minister Masrour Barzani presided over the foundation stone-laying ceremony for the Dwin Dam in Erbil province, highlighting the project’s strategic significance and its potential to transform the region. During his address, he stressed the importance of the dam’s location and detailed the revisions made to its design to safeguard the area's historical monuments while maximizing water storage capacity.

In his remarks, Barzani underlined his commitment to environmental preservation and protecting the region's rich historical heritage. He revealed that he had instructed the Ministry of Municipalities and Tourism, along with other relevant ministries, to ensure proper sewage treatment around the town of Shaqlawa. The goal is to prevent untreated sewage from entering the Dwin Dam’s water, ensuring the project does not pose an environmental threat.

Prime Minister Barzani also announced plans to restore Dwin Castle, a historic site linked to the Kurdish leader Salah ad-Din Ayyubi, along with other regional monuments. These restorations will adhere to archaeological guidelines to prevent further deterioration and preserve the region’s cultural legacy.

Addressing concerns about local farmers whose lands may be submerged due to the dam’s construction, Barzani assured the public that fair compensation will be provided. He expressed optimism that once completed, the dam, along with the restored historical sites, will attract tourists and turn the area into a key destination for nature and archaeology enthusiasts.

“The implementation of this project has been entrusted to a local company with substantial experience in dam construction,” Barzani stated, noting that this decision will help strengthen local expertise and foster further economic development. He also expressed his appreciation for the SENK Group and its previous achievements in the region.

In closing, Prime Minister Barzani called on citizens to support the government’s efforts in environmental protection and to help promote the Kurdistan Region's natural beauty as a global attraction. He reiterated that water management and environmental preservation are critical elements of the government’s development agenda, with water being a key driver of prosperity for the region.

Barzani affirmed that the government’s long-term strategy focuses on combating climate change and drought by harnessing rainwater and spring water, ensuring that further reconstruction and development remain at the forefront of Kurdistan’s future plans.

The Dwin Dam project, once completed, is expected to significantly boost agriculture, increase groundwater levels, and provide new opportunities for fish farming in the area, further contributing to the region’s prosperity.