The four-year development program of the UN has allowed granting of $135 million out of $235 million to save Lake Urmia, as stated by Muhammedjavad Muhammedizade, head of the organization for environmental protection.
The official noted that the main problem was that water of rivers flowing to Urmia, Parishan and Hamun was used irrationally.
70% of Urmia has dried out. One liter of water contains 400 grams of salt, compared with 160-170 grams before. The drought causes harm to local nature.
Tabriz and Urmia (city) held protests last year, demanding measures to be taken to stop the drought. Dozens of people were arrested.
