New Water Treatment Plant Opens In Sistan And Baluchestan, Supporting 10,000 People

UNICEF Iran, working closely with the Government of Iran and thanks to the generous funding from the Republic of Korea, celebrated the official opening of the Kohak Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) on November 18-19, 2025. This essential Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) project was finished in under a year. It helps keep the local environment safe and clean, lessen the impacts of water scarcity and supports the health and livelihood of local families, including Afghan refugees and host communities.

The new facility treats 1,000 cubic meters of wastewater every day, serving about 10,000 people. Importantly, it stops untreated sewage from polluting the Chahnimes reservoir, which is a key source of safe water for the area.

During the opening ceremony which brought together many important officials from the government, Parliament, esteemed donor the Republic of Korea, and ministries, Monika Oledzka Nielsen, UNICEF Deputy Representative Programmed in Iran, noted the importance of working together: “Today’s visit reflects the strength of collaboration... This initiative represents a vital investment in public health, environmental protection, and climate resilience, benefiting thousands of people and setting a strong example for sustainable development.”

Reusing Water to Help Farmers
A key part of the Kohak plant is that it treats wastewater well enough to be used again. This treated sewage which has retained the standards of clean and safe water for agriculture again will now go to local farms and green areas. This idea helps the economy, makes communities stronger, and protects the inhabitants by reducing the impacts of sand and dust storms.

The Republic of Korea provided generously funding for the project. They have focused their support on Sistan and Baluchestan because of the challenges the province faces, like water scarcity and the needs of refugees.

Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Iran, Mr. Kim Junpyo, confirmed their commitment: “Korea knows from its own history how vital international solidarity can be... This is why we are committed to working with Iran and UNICEF to strengthen resilience and improve the well-being of families in Sistan and Baluchestan.”

The Embassy also visited other UNICEF-supported health and WASH projects in the province. UNICEF confirms its long-term commitment to the well-being of all communities in Iran.

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UNICEF promotes the rights and wellbeing of every child, in everything we do. Together with our partners, we work in 190 countries and territories to translate that commitment into practical action, focusing special effort on reaching the most vulnerable and excluded children, to the benefit of all children, everywhere. For more information, visit www.unicef.org.