Efforts to revitalize Nilufar Lake in Kermanshah Province
Head of the Kermanshah Province Tourism Development Company, Seyyed Mohammad Amin Hosseini, highlighted the alarming 90% reduction in the water supply of Sarab-e Nilufar (Nilufar Lake), a key tourist attraction in the province (Nilufar means lotus in Persian). He called on relevant agencies, including the regional water authority and the agricultural jihad organization, to take immediate action to address this issue.
In an interview with ISNA, Hosseini mentioned that significant measures have been implemented over the past eight months at the Nilufar Lake complex, including environmental beautification, installation of lighting, development of green spaces, and repairs and updates to restroom facilities. These efforts have resulted in an increase in the number of tourists visiting the site compared to previous years, ISNA wrote.
Hosseini underscored the necessity for relevant executive agencies to collaborate in tackling this issue, noting that the presence of numerous deep wells around the lake and the cultivation of water-intensive crops such as corn and potatoes have contributed to the decline in groundwater levels, thereby reducing the water supply in Nilufar Lake.
He added that if the regional water authorities cooperate, a dredging operation should be conducted at the lake’s bottom to help facilitate water circulation in the shallower areas.
Despite Nilufar Lake being on the verge of drying up, Hosseini pointed out that initiatives undertaken by local officials have led to an increase in tourist arrivals compared to previous years. He reported that approximately 1,500 vehicles entered the region between September 22 and October 2 of this year, compared to just 500 during the same period last year.
He emphasized that if the water issue in Sarab-e Nilufar is resolved, there will likely be a significant increase in tourist entries to the site.
Nilufar Lake is located approximately15 km northwest of the city of Kermanshah at the foot of Mount Komijar. This wetland features a large pool adorned with lotus flowers and serves as a recreational area where fishing is also permitted. The lake’s surface is entirely covered with water lilies, making it a habitat for wild geese and herons.
Recreational and tourist facilities established around the lake, making it a popular destination during the Nowruz (Iranian New Year) celebrations and throughout the summer.