Toxic Oil Spills Spread Across Sulaymaniyah: A Growing Environmental Emergency

In late October 2025, a wave of toxic oil spills began unfolding across Sulaymaniyah Province, starting in Khalakan and quickly spreading to Torba, Piramagrun, Tanjaro, Arbat, Sharazoor, Derbandikhan, and Penjwen. The spills involve hazardous waste from illegal refinery operations—highly poisonous materials dumped directly into valleys, grazing lands, and waterways. These contaminants now threaten Dukan and Darbandikhan reservoirs, the drinking water of over two million people, and the health of wildlife, livestock, and communities. Despite one site receiving partial treatment, most locations remain untouched, and recent rains have worsened the spread. This escalating crisis demands urgent action, accountability, and long-term environmental restoration. 

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