River Tigris becoming a graveyard of bodies

[Barrett808]

Source: IRIN

BAGHDAD, 8 May 2007 (IRIN) - The River Tigris has long been a symbol of prosperity in Iraq but since the US-led invasion in 2003, this amazing watercourse has turned into a graveyard of bodies. In addition, the water level is decreasing as pollution increases, say environmentalists.

Pollution in the river is caused by oil derivatives and industrial waste as well as Iraqi and US military waste, they say.

The river was one of the main sources of water, food, transport and recreation for the local population but after four years of war and pollution, it has been transformed into a stagnant sewer, according to environmentalists.

"The situation is critical. The river is gradually being destroyed and there are no projects to prevent its destruction," said Professor Ratib Mufid, an environment expert at Baghdad University.

"A large part of the river has been turned into a military area, forcing families to leave their homes around the riverbanks and close restaurants. Fishermen are prohibited from fishing where the river passes through the capital and all vessels are banned in the area," Mufid said.

Read more: http://mobile.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/IRIN/bbc635469a6b3073f9b596fc7cf9fdae.htm

[saigon68]

1. "BRING EM ON" shouted the AWOL CHIMPANZEE

[ozymandius]

2. Sounds like it's time for a rousing chorus of "Let freedom reign".

:sarcasm:

[reprobate]

4. Is the Chimperor really that uneducated? I believe the original was "Let Freedom Ring"

And it referred to the liberty bell, didn't it?

[The Stranger]

3. Mission Accomplished.