Spatial Analysis of Clean Water Production from Raw Water Sources in Iraq for 2024

Abstract

This study presents a geographical analysis of the production of treated potable water in Iraq for the year 2024 (excluding the Kurdistan Region). The aims to evaluate the status of water production services, highlighting the efficiency of this vital service and identifying the technical, administrative, and environmental constraints facing the water treatment process.

The key findings reveal a significant infrastructure deficit, as 21% of the total water production plants are completely out of service, while 7% operate partially. Water loss (leakage and non-revenue water) exceeded 23.5% of total production, with Salah al-Din Governorate recording the highest loss rate at 37%. Furthermore, the study monitored a sharp disparity in distribution between urban and rural areas; urban areas enjoy a clear surplus, while rural areas suffer from a genuine water deficit. The average per capita share in urban areas reached 344 liters/day, compared to 230 liters/day in rural areas. The results of supply efficiency indicators also showed significant variation among governorates; Najaf recorded the highest efficiency index (1.35), while Al-Muthanna Governorate recorded a critical decline in supply levels with an index of (0.61(.