Peregraf - Kirkuk Governor Rebwar Taha said the floods that struck the city on December 11—damaging dozens of homes in several neighborhoods and surrounding villages—were caused by widespread encroachments and illegal activities on natural watercourses.
Speaking at a press conference, Taha accused "mafias" of selling valleys and water channels to citizens, warning that such practices directly contributed to the flooding. He stressed that the watercourses in the Shoraw and Panja Ali neighborhoods must be restored to their original state, adding that water channels should not be filled in or built over.
The governor noted that houses and factories have been constructed on these watercourses, obstructing natural drainage. He confirmed that those affected by the floods in Kirkuk will be compensated and vowed to take measures to prevent similar disasters in the future.
Footage of the Kirkuk flood, December 11, 2025