A total of $1.85 million has been allocated for restoration of the internationally significant wetlands of Hamun in Sistan-Baluchestan Province.
“Funds have been allocated within next year’s budget for the restoration of the Hamun wetlands and related research projects”, Ahmad Ali Keikha, natural habitat and biodiversity deputy of the Department of Environment (DoE) said, IRNA reported.
The government is concerned about environmental issues including the wetlands of Hamun. By restoring the Hamun wetlands, the DoE is trying to improve the lives of Sistan people, the official said, adding the comprehensive management of Hamun basin needs the assistance of all local officials and communities. The restoration plan will be devised within a few months.
Located within eastern deserts of the country, Hamun wetland includes the largest fresh water lake in the Iranian Plateau, covering an area of 5,700 sq km, at a depth varying between 1 and 5 meters.
Hamun lake is comprised of 3 main bodies, namely Hamun-Puzak in the northeast; Hamun-Saberi in the north; and Hamun-Hirmand in the west and southwest. A great part of Hamun-Puzak, as well as the major part of Hamun-Saberi are situated in Afghanistan, and the rest in Iran.
The water level of the lakes depends on the downpour and mainly on the outpour of the dams across Hirmand River. During well-watered years, or after spring floods, the 3 lakes join to form a horseshoe.
