ERBIL — Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani inaugurated one of the strategic projects of the current Ninth Cabinet, the Gomespan Dam, located northeast of Erbil. Speaking at the opening ceremony, he emphasized that the dam will be an important tourist area that will benefit the people of Khoshnawti Valley and the surrounding region.

On Wednesday, PM Barzani officially opened the dam and laid the foundation stone for the Gomespan-Smaquli highway. In his speech, he highlighted the significance of dam-building projects for the region, noting that they can provide water security for all of the Kurdistan Region.

“The water was being wasted. When we decided to build the dam, we had many ideas on how we could utilize it. Everyone knows that these dams will help farmers benefit from the water. We have much bigger plans to develop the tourism sector in this region. We are currently working on a master plan and hope that God will give us the opportunity to continue this task and develop such projects,” stated the Prime Minister.

“This dam will be a significant and encouraging factor for tourism development in the region, as well as for addressing climate change and enhancing fish resources. Most importantly, it will serve as a vital tourist area around Erbil,” he added.

"I have no doubt that it will be a very attractive place for people to visit from Erbil and other Kurdish cities. I have seen the master plan; it is truly wonderful and beautiful. Although it has not yet reached its final stage, this project will contribute to the development of the economic sector and the creation of a stronger economic infrastructure, as well as generating jobs for the people of the region," the Kurdish leader explained.

"This is one of the most beautiful and significant projects we have initiated around Erbil, and we will develop and expand it. Additionally, there are other projects aimed at water collection, building dams, and creating ponds. I hope the people of Erbil and other cities will come soon, making this a pleasant place to spend time and enjoy, God willing," the Prime Minister concluded.

The Gomespan Dam is located 35 kilometers northeast of Erbil and covers an area of 6,125,000 square meters. According to sources, the reservoir relies on rainwater and local springs, with a storage capacity expected to be around 115 million cubic meters.