DUBAI –Iran is facing a severe water crisis in 2025, driven by a combination of prolonged drought, climate change, and significant mismanagement of water resources. President Masoud Pezeshkian warned that if water consumption is not drastically controlled, Tehran could face critical shortages by September or October, with dam reservoirs currently at around 14% capacity. Over the past five years, drought conditions and a 40% drop in rainfall have exacerbated the problem. Despite government efforts, including proposed shorter workweeks to reduce demand, Mr. Pezeshkian rejected such measures as insufficient, calling them “cover-ups” rather than real solutions.
Iran’s water use is disproportionately high in agriculture, which consumes about 90% of freshwater despite only about 12% of land being farmed. In Tehran alone, 70% of residents reportedly consume more than the daily recommended 130 liters per person. The crisis has led to widespread water rationing, reduced water pressure in urban areas, and growing concerns about future sustainability. Officials have even suspended operations at many offices to conserve water and electricity.
The water crisis is viewed as partly “homemade,” with decades of inefficient natural resource management aggravating the effects of climate change. Reservoirs feeding Tehran’s dams, including Lar, Latian, Mamloo, and Karaj, have seen drastic declines caused by a 47% drop in regional rainfall. Experts predict that without urgent action, Tehran could experience “day zero” within weeks, when taps run dry for large parts of the city.
Social unrest occurred in 2021 over water shortages, and concerns over governance and environmental mismanagement continue to fuel public dissatisfaction. Negotiations with neighboring countries to import water are ongoing, but long-term solutions require sweeping reforms, especially in agricultural water usage and infrastructure management.
In summary, Iran’s water crisis in 2025 is a critical threat linked to environmental, managerial, and political challenges. It calls for immediate and structural changes to avoid irreversible damage and secure sustainable water supplies for the capital and the nation.