Ms. Hanieh Kharaji

From Mismanagement to Migration: Causes and Impacts of Lake Urmia’s Drying

Sun May 11 2025

The drying of Lake Urmia is the result of a combination of human mismanagement, climate change, prolonged droughts, and unplanned infrastructure projects. These factors have reduced the lake’s water volume and quality, leading to ecological collapse and wide-ranging economic, health, and social consequences.

1. Causes of Lake Urmia’s Drying

The desiccation of Lake Urmia is the outcome of combined natural and human-driven factors. Mismanagement of water resources, including the construction of over 90 dams and unsustainable agricultural practices, has drastically reduced inflows. Climate change—marked by declining rainfall, higher temperatures, and prolonged droughts—has accelerated the process. Furthermore, infrastructure and road construction projects have altered natural watercourses and limited the lake’s water supply, often without comprehensive environmental assessments.

2. Consequences of the Crisis

Environmental Destruction: Severe habitat loss, shrinking wetlands, biodiversity collapse, extinction of migratory birds, desertification, and salinization of agricultural land.
Economic Impacts: Declining crop yields, reduced income for farmers, and the loss of tourism potential.
Health Problems: Salt and dust storms worsening air quality, respiratory illnesses, contaminated drinking water, and increased risk of waterborne diseases.
Migration and Social Displacement: Residents are forced to migrate in search of better livelihoods, leading to cultural erosion and the decline of traditional ways of life.
Conflicts and Psychological Impacts: Scarcity of water intensifies disputes between communities, while the ecological disaster triggers widespread psychological stress, anxiety, and hopelessness.

The crisis of Lake Urmia underscores the urgent need for immediate and sustainable action to restore the ecosystem and safeguard the well-being of surrounding communities.