Rasoul Zargar told Isna on Tuesday that potable water wastage stands at between 28 and 30 percent against the international standard of 10-12 percent.

He stated that the ministry has in parallel with dam-construction prioritized measures to curb such huge amount of wastage.

Turning to agricultural sector, the official noted that extensive cooperation with Agricultural Jihad Ministry and Water and Sewage Company has led to improved methods and systems of flood irrigation.

Stressing that it needs at least five years to achieve positive results, Zargar noted that plans are being made to improve flood irrigation efficiency by 15 percent.

On dam construction projects, the official stated, “We should change our literature, henceforth in spite of saying how many dams are inundated or launched, the ministry should inform the public on how much water in urban and agricultural networks are provided to the people.“

It takes at least three to four years to prepare reports based on the new approach, he concluded.

It is essential for the government to change water consumption patterns in the country. In this country, the industrial, agriculture and household sectors continue to consume water excessively. The government is trying to improve water consumption models in each sector according to their needs, taking into account the geographical features of every region.