Qubad Talabani: Chamchamal Disaster Was Natural, but Its Impact Could Have Been Reduced

PUKMEDIA

KRG Deputy PM Qubad Talabani.

Qubad Talabani, Deputy Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region, on Sunday, 14 December 2025, affirmed that the incident in Chamchamal and its surrounding areas was primarily a natural disaster. However, he noted that its impact could have been mitigated and the extent of the damage reduced had the necessary precautionary measures been taken in time. He expressed his gratitude for the resilience and courage shown by the people of Chamchamal in facing the disaster.

Last week, floods struck several areas of the Kurdistan Region, resulting in loss of life and causing extensive material damage in the area.

Speaking at a press conference, Talabani said: “Investigations were conducted with government officials in the area. After reviewing all aspects of the disaster and the circumstances surrounding it, four officials submitted requests to be relieved of their posts: the Chamchamal District Head, the Municipal Director, the Director of Education, and the Director of the Shorsh Sub-district. These requests were approved. However, the Director of the Shorsh Sub-district did not submit a request, and the necessary legal measures will now be taken to remove him.”

He added that the committees had completed their work by assessing all damages and identifying every affected home in order to begin providing assistance and compensation. He stressed that aid distributed through the official committees “is provided fairly and equally.”

Talabani praised the media outlets that reported on the incident responsibly, while criticising one outlet for its irresponsible coverage. He emphasised that it is the government’s duty to provide more services to the Chamchamal district and noted that “all government officials, including ministers from different parties, were present at the scene.”

The Deputy Prime Minister also stated that those responsible for the killing of martyr Ako would be brought to justice, expressing confidence that they would receive appropriate punishment given the presence of eyewitnesses and clear evidence. He reaffirmed that aid delivered by the official committee would be provided “in an organised and fair manner.”

Talabani stressed the importance of ensuring fair compensation for every family and individual affected by the disaster. He acknowledged shortcomings in the capacity of some local administrations but emphasised that sufficient resources were available to support all those impacted, and these would be fully utilised.

He noted that the Kalar administration had better anticipated such events, having submitted a request last year to construct a flood barrier — a project that was immediately approved and implemented.

Talabani described the Chamchamal incident as a wake-up call, urging all institutions to maintain constant preparedness for emergencies and potential natural disasters, including earthquakes.

He added that assessments by a specialised committee and reports from the universities of Garmian and Sulaymaniyah showed that certain violations contributed to the flooding. He stressed the need to take appropriate measures, draw lessons from the event, and work to improve performance in the future.



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